There are different pictorial modes among the Bench, simply because the paintings are ephemeral. The ochre pigments used for these decorations do not resist to rain. As long as it stays dry and protected by the roof, everything is fine. But as soon as the rainy season starts, the water runs down the walls and causes serious damage because there is no cement or lime. Only cow dung holds the earth and it is not very resistant against the rain. But the Bench excel in creation which expresses an incredible freshness and freedom.

It is in Ethiopia, 600 km south of the capital, that Hans Silvester met the Bench, an ethnic group of farmers. The discovery of this people is almost by chance. Hans Silvester was on his way to the Omo Valley when he came across some painted houses. Curious and above all admiring, he put on his explorer's hat, and quickly realized that few people were interested in this culture. He describes the Bench people as "modest": no one owns more than 6 sheep. But the harmony in which they live touched the photographer's heart. It must be said that the animals are totally integrated into the daily life and create a very special atmosphere. Animals and people live in symbiosis, in total freedom. 

Retour De Voyage has selected this photo which reveals the talent of the bench women through their mural creations.