Tribes of the Omo, is a group of works created by New Jersey based fine artist/illustrator Jay Golding. Jay is a Jamaican/American artist whose work primarily consists of realistic portraits and figures in various mediums such as: mural design/ installation, all traditional paint mediums (watercolor, gouache, acrylic and oil), and Illustration 
mediums (graphite pencil and ink). Golding’s pieces tell vivid imaginings that are inspired from his thoughts, environment, world culture, African heritage and nature. The artist’s main objective through his work is to inspire the viewer with each unique subject presented.
The works in this exhibit spanning from 2017 – present day, were created in various mediums such as oil and acrylic paint, colored pencil and ballpoint pen. The works highlight Nilotic indigenous tribal groups from the Omo Valley region of Southwest Ethiopia, such as the Mursi, Suri, Bodi, and Hamar tribes.
“My process usually begins with either a pen or colored pencil drawing from photographic references I find of the tribes people, as well as literary research to get information about their way of living” says the artist.
Many of these people are Nilotic pastoralists who depend on the river to grow their crops and to fish, or who live in forests or huts on their mainland. Through these images, the artist touches on a narrative of how important nature is to our existence on this planet. According to Jay, “there is much we can learn from these tribes by studying their way of living.”
“I have been greatly inspired by the stories of these people and since beginning this work, I have began to explore my tribal lineage more as well” adds Jay.
This exhibit will run until the end of February. Come down to the library and check it out!
-Archana Chiplunkar, Adult Services Librarian