Mother Earth

It’s not just because it’s Mothers' Day in the UK, but ever since the human tribe has existed on this planet, we’ve revered mother figures – and most tribes, cultures and religions have worshipped their own mother ‘goddesses’. There are many symbols and artistic representations of Mother Earth, as well as personifications throughout history.





Isis was considered by the Egyptians to be the mother of the world and Gaia was a Greek goddess personifying the earth. To Christians, Eve is considered to be the ‘mother of all the living’ and for Hindus, Parvati is considered the supreme Divine Mother and the embodiment of the total energy in the universe. Above is an African symbol for Mother Earth and the Navajo, a Native American version, traditionally painted in turquoise is shown left. The marks on her body symbolize corn, pumpkin, tobacco and beans – all thought to be life-giving elements to the Navajo.




At ShopCurious, we’ve our own tribute to earth mothers in the form of hand painted ethnic-inspired clothing, unique tribal accessories, traditional artefacts and kitsch retro memorabilia depicting fertility icons and mother and child images. However, these are nothing compared to the extraordinary display in celebration of Mother Nature by the Surma nd Mursi tribes of East Africa’s Omo Valley.





Pictures by Hans Silvester, (from the book Natural Fashion: Tribal Decoration from Africa), show authentic and exotic tribal fashion at its best.




Unusual and distinctive headdresses and eco-friendly jewellery are made from natural materials like flowers, fruits, skins, shells and local vegetation from the borderlands of Ethiopia, Kenya and Sudan.




The handmade, raw and recycled outfits are breathtakingly beautiful in their design, colour and stylish simplicity.





We’re not suggesting that you go out and paint your face with clay, or wear snail shells around your neck, but this could give you all the inspiration you need to create a truly original tribal look for yourself.






Or perhaps you already have your own special way of showing your appreciation of Mother Earth?

Do you?