Photography print, 16" x 20", by Beniam Yetbarek
"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