Displayed at Revelry in March 2024
The Tigray Art Collective is a beacon of hope, where creativity seamlessly merges with advocacy, healing, and innovation. With a shared passion for art at its core, our collective is unwaveringly devoted to leveraging its transformative power to amplify the voices of Tigrayans. Through diverse artistic expressions, we strive to uphold the rights and well-being of the Tigrayan community, fostering healing amidst adversity while venturing into uncharted territories of imaginative exploration. Embark on a journey where art transcends conventional boundaries, emerging as a formidable force for positive change, resilience, and cultural celebration in Tigray.
Emerging from the grim realities of war, ethnic cleansing, and genocide that have plagued Tigray since November 4, 2020, our collective was born out of a pressing need for solidarity and action. With Ethiopia's government leading a relentless campaign against Tigray, aided by forces from Eritrea, Amhara militias, and others, the humanitarian crisis has spiraled to unprecedented levels, earning it the grim title of "Ethiopia’s forgotten war is the deadliest of the 21st century." Despite the daunting challenges, with over 3 million enduring famine conditions and starvation and 5.2 million in desperate need of urgent aid, including 2.3 million children requiring humanitarian assistance, the Tigray Art Collective stands firm as a beacon of hope, resilience, and solidarity. We harness art as a potent tool for advocacy, healing, and community empowerment across Tigray, Sudanese refugee camps, and the diaspora.
Formally established in January 2022, the Tigray Art Collective has crystalized its vision and mission. However, many of our artists had long been utilizing their art for advocacy, even before the collective's inception. I, Mahder Tella (aka Mahdi), am the founder and creative director of the Tigray Art Collective and an artist dedicated to this cause. Through revenue generated from art sales, we actively support various organizations providing humanitarian assistance, including S.O.S International Inc. in Louisville, KY, epitomizing our steadfast commitment to making a tangible difference in those affected by the war in Tigray.
 Women of Tigray - Faith, by Wikianos Tesfahun |
Wikianos is a dedicated artist whose medium of choice- pencils, charcoal and pens- captures the essence of everyday individuals amidst the tumultuous backdrop of war in Tigray. Through his poignant portraits, he endeavors to humanize the harrowing experiences endured by victims of drone attacks, rape, starvation, and forced displacement, shedding light on the atrocities faced by the Tigrayan people at the hands of the Ethiopian government, Eritrea, and their eternal allies. His art is a powerful conduit for exposing the realities of war crimes, compelling viewer to confront the stark truths of conflict and injustice |
 Atrocities in Tigray, by Wikianos Tesfahun |
 Sacrifice of Tigrayan for Self - Determination, by Wikianos Tesfahun |
| Robel Asfaw, a versatile self-taught artist, architect, and graphic designer, brings together a unique combination of skills and artistic flair. He constructs compelling visual stories for diverse clients through his proficiency and creative sensibilities. His capabilities span a spectrum of design endeavors, including creating illustrations, developing impactful branding solutions, crafting designs or print materials, and producing engaging digital media content. He is committed to crafting designs that leave a lasting and memorable impact. |
 Tizeta, by Robel Asfaw |
 Wa Bro, by Robel Asfaw |
 Tizeta on Wood, by Robel Asfaw |
 Before and After Genocide, by Robel Asfaw |
 After the Protest, by Robel Asfaw |
 Stalwart, by Robel Asfaw |
 Ashe Ashe, by Yeshi Gebretinsa |
 Ane Eye, by Yeshi Gebretinsa |
 Gelaho, by Yeshi Gebretinsa |
 Through the Looking Glass, by Mstiirr |
Mstiirr is a Tigrayan artist based in Toronto. Mstiirr finds inspiration through her own lived experiences, but also through interning the thoughts and feelings of others in her work "In the summer of 2021, I came across a tweet where someone questioned whether their love for global politics was coming from genuine concern or for entertainment purposes, as they noticed that the world had started focusing more on Ethiopia. as someone who grew up constantly consuming world news from a young age, I felt as though the tweet resonated with me, as I also began to question my intentions of consumption since the Tigray Genocide began. Like this Twitter user, as the world now focuses on my home, I have been avoiding the news because of the pain it brings" -Mstiirr |
| "Hello, I'm Yisak, a digital artist based in Tigray. Welcome to my world of digital art, a space where pixels and passion converge to tell the stories of Tigray. As a digital artist residing in the heart of Tigray, each stroke of my stylus is a testament to my commitment to being a voice for my people. Through these vibrant creations, I aim to showcase the rich tapestry of Tigray's culture and honor the unsung heroes who embody its resilience. Every piece is a visual journey, inviting you to explore the depths of our heritage and connect with the narratives that shape our community. Join me in this artistic celebration at our show, where Tigray's stories come to life through the vivid hues of digital expression. Amidst the challenges of war, I utilized paintings to provide psychological therapy to displaced children and youths, offering them solace and healing within the confines of IDP centers" -Yisak Tekia |
 Khunama (ኩናማ), by Yisak Tekia |
 Children Need Humanitarian Aid, by Yisak Tekia |
 Geralta Mountain Priest, by Yisak Tekia |
 Haye Adi, by Hlina Seyoum |
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 Netsihna, by Hlina Seyoum |
 Ankahi Enlightening, by Hlina Seyoum |
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"My journey as a self-taught photographer and visual artist has been a transformative odyssey, grounded in the pursuit of personal healing and a response to the urgent crisis in Tigray, Ethiopia. Raised in Seattle, WA, it was just over three years ago when I unearthed the therapeutic power of photography while grappling with anxiety and PTSD. Through the sen of my camera, I embarked on an exploration of human emotions, with a distinct emphasis on the multifaceted nature of the black experience. The ongoing genocide in Tigray became a profound catalyst for my work. I committed myself to documenting efforts to end this tragedy, from capturing poignant moments protest in various cities to creating compelling images that demand attention to the crisis. My work has been featured in media outlets such as Africa News, BBC, Fox13 Seattle and Komo News" -Beniam Yetbarek |
 #StopWarOnTigray, by Beniam Yetbarek |
 Dictator's Club - Tigray Genocide: East Africa Edition, by Mahder Tella |
Mahder Tella, the founder and creative director of Tigray Art Collective, is a Louisville native and travels domestically and internationally to advocate for the Tigray people amidst a profound political and humanitarian crisis in Tigray, Ethiopia. Employing art as a form of activism, she sheds light on the ongoing genocide and ethnic cleansing in Tigray, focusing on her acclaimed 3D portraits and string art crafted from roofing nails. Her diverse artistic repertoire encompasses photography, painting, digital art, resin sculptures, and an upcoming cookbook. Rooted in her homeland of Tigray, Mahder's work reflects a profound appreciation for the juxtaposition of beauty, resilience, and profound suffering. |
 Shewit, by Mahder Tella |
 Sun Also Rises in Tigray, by Mahder Tella |
 Tranquil Aroma Ritual, by Mahder Tella |
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 Denial, by Ahadu Gebreselassie |
"As an artist, my journey began in Tigray, where I found joy in sketching the people and landscapes my homeland. While studying architecture in Tigray and later in the United States, I discovered a profound passion for artistic expression/ through painting, sketches, and digital illustration, I explore the intricacies of human emotion and form, often drawn to the nuanced details of expression. My recent works are a testament to my commitment to raising awareness for Tigray and advocating for its causes. each piece is infused with the grace and beauty I find in the human experience, reflecting my fascination with the complexities of emotion and the human form" - Ahadu Gebreselassie |
 Blessing, by Goitoom Gebru |
 Resilience, by Goitoom Gebru |
 Moment, by Goitoom Gebru |
Goitoom Gebru, an architect in profession, is a self-taught collage artist specializing in detailed collage art made up of gluing pieces of paper found in colored magazines or newspapers. His work is a visual narrative capturing portraits and moments taken from his home country. As an artist, he believes in the profound impact of art on the soul, viewing it as a tool to cultivate spiritual qualities. His work reflects a message of hope, inviting viewers to find inspiration and optimism in the beauty of the human experience. |
| "In my painting, I chose to work with oil on canvas to capture the essence of daily life and the movement of people in a realistic manner. My inspiration stems from the observation of the day-to-day routines and movements of individuals around me. I aimed to depict the beauty and complexity of these ordinary moments, highlighting the subtle nuances and gestures that often go unnoticed. Through my work, I seek to evoke a sense of familiarity and connection with the viewer, inviting them to pause and reflect on the beauty of the everyday." -Birhanemeskel Girmay |
 Tigray City Market, by Birhanemeskel Girmay |
 Stroll Through the City, by Birhanemeskel Girmay |
 Apollo, by Amanuel Gebremariam |
 Float, by Seb-Halyot |
Seb-Halyot (translated as Person who empathizes/cares) was initially created to share and visualize TigrayGenocide; it has evolved into an expression of thought and the attachment of the Tigrayan diaspora. Seb-Halyot creates poetry and photography, expressing raw emotions, pain, and healing daily. Nothing stops; it's all a continuation of our existence and experience as Tigrayns and navigating the world as individuals. Currently working in iPhone photography, Seb-Halyot aspires to make videos and animations in the future. |
 Hiwot-Hewyet, by Seb-Halyot |
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| "In my painting, created with oil on canvas, I sought to capture the essence of culture through a realistic lens. The focal point of the piece is the girl painted in blue, symbolizing purity and innocence. Against a vibrant yellow background, I aimed to convey a sense of hope and optimism. Through the use of color and composition, I aimed to evoke a sense of emotion and connection with the viewer, inviting them to reflect on themes of purity, hope, and the beauty of cultural diversity. My intention was to create a piece that not only showcases the beauty of the subject but also conveys a deeper message about the power of hope and purity in a world filled with challenges" -Yohannes Gebrewahid |
 The Girl From Tigray Ethiopia, by Yohannes Gebrewahid |
 Arc of the Covenant 2, by Tewolde Brehan Kidane |
Tewolde Brehan Kidane was born in 1982 in Aigrat, Tigray, where he now works as an art teacher. Having attended Abyssian Modern Art School in Addis Abeba, he studied the ancient art of his country found in the old monasteries. He studied the ancient art in Lake Tana and Axum monasteries over seven years, living with the monks. He is currently writing a book explaining the techniques of ancient magic art and magic scroll paintings, where they made colors by grinding roots and flowers. The culture of this nation must be preserved for generations to come. Mekelle University sponsors him to write his book as part of the Heritage Department. The ancient art symbols are an integral part of his work. His paintings have been shown at numerous exhibitions, including British and American Embassies, the French Embassy Centre, The National Theatre, and the Free Gallery in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Deutsche TV and BBC Amharic News have interviewed him about his art. In January 2021, he was selected by a team of artists to run a five-day graffiti art workshop with orphan children for the America Corner, part of the US Embassy in Mekelle. |
 Incense, Tewolde Brehan Kidane |
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The Future Merigeta, by Tewolde Brehan Kidane