Statement from Tesfaye Urgessa

“I am grateful for this historic moment for Ethiopia and its art and culture. For the first time in history, Ethiopia has its own pavilion at the Venice Biennale, one of the world’s most prestigious and influential art events. I am humbled and honored to be the first artist to show at the Ethiopian pavilion, thanks to the generous and trusting support of Saatchi Yates, the Ministry of Tourism in Ethiopia, the Embassy of Ethiopia in Rome, and their dedicated teams. They have made this dream a reality. I am proud to represent my country and to share my work with the global audience. I hope that my exhibition, ‘Prejudice and Belonging’ at the Palazzo Bollani, which is going to be curated by award-winning author and broadcaster Lemn Sissay OBE FRSL, will spark curiosity and admiration for Ethiopian art, and will encourage and inspire other Ethiopian artists to follow their creative passions and to tell their stories to the world. I believe that this is the beginning of a new era for Ethiospian art, and I am thrilled to be part of it.

I would like to thank all the people who supported my career directly or indirectly. Without your encouragement, guidance, and collaboration, I would not have been able to achieve this milestone. I am indebted to you for your trust and generosity. I invite you to keep the journey with me in the future, as I continue to explore and express my artistic vision. I appreciate your presence throughout my journey as an artist! Thank you.”