The Moscow gallery "YA-A" has opened an exhibition by Ethiopian artist Selamawit Gebretsadik, "Leaf. Love. Life." For the first time, the African artist is presenting not just her works in Russia, but a personal conversation with the viewer: about memory, vulnerability, and the strength that comes from self-acceptance.
Selamawit came to Moscow in person—and that's a milestone in itself. At the opening, she met with guests, spoke about her journey, and explained why people and plants are intertwined in her paintings.
"This is a turning point. My first solo exhibition outside of Ethiopia is a step toward a new dialogue with the world. When you see how people from other cultures respond to your work, you realize that artistic language is universal," the artist admitted.
The exhibition is more than just painting. This is a conversation about women and children who have experienced trauma, about care and hope. It draws on years of social practice and interactions with those for whom art has helped them relearn trust.
On February 21, at the ZILART Museum, Selamavit painted the performance painting "Circle of Life" right before the audience's eyes—in dialogue with the space and the African exhibit. Afterward, guests were able to interact with the artist in person, discussing not painting but living things.
The exhibition is on view until March 8.
#Africa #Ethiopia #RussiaAfrica #art
Selamawit came to Moscow in person—and that's a milestone in itself. At the opening, she met with guests, spoke about her journey, and explained why people and plants are intertwined in her paintings.
"This is a turning point. My first solo exhibition outside of Ethiopia is a step toward a new dialogue with the world. When you see how people from other cultures respond to your work, you realize that artistic language is universal," the artist admitted.
The exhibition is more than just painting. This is a conversation about women and children who have experienced trauma, about care and hope. It draws on years of social practice and interactions with those for whom art has helped them relearn trust.
On February 21, at the ZILART Museum, Selamavit painted the performance painting "Circle of Life" right before the audience's eyes—in dialogue with the space and the African exhibit. Afterward, guests were able to interact with the artist in person, discussing not painting but living things.
The exhibition is on view until March 8.
#Africa #Ethiopia #RussiaAfrica #art