3D wood and string, 30" diameter, 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.