Art Exhibit - Tigrayan Community

Tigrayan Collection

Dictator’s Club, East Africa Edition

Mahder Tella

Digital Painting

During the dark days of 2021, as the Tigray genocide continued to unfold, Mahder Tella created this comic book cover—a satirical yet devastating portrayal of the unfolding atrocities. Using the recognizable 'Simpsons' aesthetic, she transformed its lightheartedness into a stark depiction of genocide's harrowing stages: classification, dehumanization, organization, polarization, preparation, persecution, extermination, and denial.

This piece is a powerful indictment of the denial and complicity of Isaias Afwerki and Abiy Ahmed Ali, who dismissed their roles in atrocities that included arterial drone strikes, systematic executions, telecommunication blackouts, widespread looting, and the weaponization of hunger. The direct line between Eritrea and Ethiopia in the imagery symbolizes their coordinated campaign. The peace agreement, signed in Tigrayan blood, underscores the immense human cost. The inclusion of drones and Ethiopian Airlines highlights their instrumental role in the genocidal violence.

Yet, this artwork transcends despair. It is a testament to resilience, fueled by the defiant words, “Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented – E.W. Never Again, Again.” This serves as a rallying cry, affirming the unwavering determination of the Tigrayan people to fight for justice and overcome all odds. This piece is a testament to the power of art to confront injustice, challenge denial, and ultimately, to inspire resistance.

Gelaho

Yeshi Gebretinsae

Painting

Artist Statement

Yeshi Gebretinsae, alongside Hlina, forms one half of the powerful artistic duo behind the Roots of Identity collection. This body of work serves as a profound meditation on Tigrayan identity, unflinchingly confronting the devastating atrocities inflicted upon the community. Through her evocative paintings, Yeshi translates the complexities of cultural heritage and the pain of collective trauma into visual narratives.

The painting showcased here depicts a young girl, a symbol of vulnerability and hope, being lifted from darkness by a community of hands. This powerful image represents the collective strength and resilience of the Tigrayan people, who come together during the darkest of times, pushing forward toward brighter days. The inclusion of a section of the Tigray map within the composition anchors the artwork to its specific cultural and geographical context, emphasizing the deep connection between the people and their land.

Hidri

Seb-Halyot

Photography

Artist Statement

“A pact among generations A memory A reality A present A future

Tigray Defense Forces are not composed of one party only; it is the people’s resistance to oppression. It is what was and what will be—the right to self-determination.”

NEBSEY – A Short Film

Gabrielle Tesfaye

Nebsey, meaning my body/soul in Tigrigna, is a short film that tells the stories of women who experienced sexual and gender-based violence during the Tigray War in Ethiopia. It addresses the impact of this violence and explores themes of reconciliation, justice, and healing.

Co-produced by artist Gabrielle Tesfaye and researcher Mitiku Gabrehiwot, the film aims to aid the healing process for affected communities. It is part of the Ethnographies of Parliaments, Politicians and People (EoPPP) project, sponsored by SOAS University of London.

Wa’ero

Robel AsfawPainting

Artist Statement

Robel Asfaw's Wa’Ero (Female Warrior), inspired by the iconography of Lady Justice, confronts the distorted reality of justice faced by the Tigrayan people amidst genocide and ethnic cleansing. This powerful image reimagines the traditional symbol, transforming it into a defiant figure that challenges the very notion of impartiality in the face of brutal oppression.

Wa’Ero stands as a visual testament to the resilience and strength of Tigrayan women, who, like the warrior depicted, must navigate a system where justice is compromised. Asfaw's work serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for accountability and truth, amplifying the voices of those silenced by violence.