The Tanya Weddemire Gallery will present “JAH•RAS•TAFARI,” an Ethiopian art activation, from Thursday, October 17 to December 21, 2024. The exhibition will feature the works of five prominent Ethiopian artists: Addis Gezehagn, Workneh Bezu, Wendi Demeke, Seyoum Ayalew, and Abraham Woldegebreal, according to a press release.
The showcase is inspired by the Rastafarian belief system, with “JAH” representing God’s presence in every individual and “Ras” referring to Haile Selassie, Ethiopia’s former emperor. “Tafari” means "one who is respected or feared," and the exhibition connects Afrocentric themes to the African Diaspora, a key aspect of Rastafarianism, which emerged in 1930s Jamaica.
The exhibition highlights a wide range of artistic styles, from figurative to abstract, with pieces deeply rooted in Ethiopian culture and history. Each artist brings a unique approach, incorporating rich textures and vibrant colors that reflect their personal and cultural experiences.
This activation is also a personal celebration for gallery founder Tanya Weddemire, who made her first trip to Africa, spending time with the artists in Addis Ababa. “It was an important journey, not only for my personal connection to the Rastafarian culture and being of Jamaican descent but also for getting to know each artist’s character behind the canvas,” Weddemire said.
The featured artists include:
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Addis Gezehagn focuses on the urban landscape of Addis Ababa, creating dream-like, layered renderings of the city’s architecture. His works blend reality with fantasy, capturing the chaos and harmony of Ethiopia’s capital.
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Workneh Bezu Kassa explores various artistic forms, including painting, sculpture, and animation. He is known as one of Ethiopia's pioneers in children’s puppet films and brings his diverse skills to the canvas with intricate, expressive works.
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Wendi Demeke reflects on his childhood experiences and uses his art to address social, political, and personal issues. He enjoys experimenting with different media to create deeply impactful pieces rooted in Ethiopian culture.
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Seyoum Ayalew uses light, shadow, and color to explore themes of conflict and resolution in his work. He has exhibited both locally and internationally and has played a significant role in establishing Ethiopia's first Visual Artists Association.
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Abraham Woldegebreal explores identity, culture, and social issues through his paintings and drawings. His 2013 solo exhibition at the National Museum of Ethiopia highlighted the triumphs and struggles of life in Ethiopia. Woldegebreal continues to push the boundaries of his art while contributing to Ethiopia’s vibrant art scene.
The exhibition is free to the public, offering a glimpse into the rich artistic traditions and contemporary visions of these talented Ethiopian artists.
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