Ethiopian art exhibition opens in Brussels
Addis Ababa, February 27, 2024 (FBC) – Ethiopian art exhibition, the first-of-its-kind, opened on Monday at the Embassy of Ethiopia in Brussels, Belgium. The art gallery exhibition is being held under the overarching theme of “Ethiopia: Land of Origins and Civilization.”
The Embassy organized the art exhibition in collaboration with Addis Ababa University School of Art and Design and Ethiopian Airlines.
The opening event was attended among others by Mr Stefano Sannino, the Secretary-General of the European External Action Service (EEAS) of the European Union, Ambassador Bart De Groof, representative of the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Dr. Norbert Richard Ibrahim, the Assistant Secretary General of the Political Affairs & Human Development Department at the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS). In addition, members of the international diplomatic community in Brussels, business institutions, universities and media, members of the Ethiopian diaspora in Brussels also attended the event.
In her welcoming remarks, Hirut Zemene, Ambassador of Ethiopia to the Benelux nations expounded on how the exhibition encapsulates the rich tapestry of Ethiopian art, scientific advancements, architectural marvels, cultural heritage, societal progress, and abundant natural resources.
She underscored Ethiopia’s central position within Africa, highlighting its extensive global connections forged through centuries-old trade networks that extended from ancient European urban centers to the Far East. The Ambassador also mentioned that Ethiopia is a country with a long history of bilateral relations with various countries of the world, from the United Nations to the African Union.
The Ambassador asserted that Ethiopia has maintained diplomatic relations with Belgium for 118 years, alongside more than five decades of relations with the European Union. Ambassador Hirut emphasized that relations with countries should be founded on pursuing common interests and respecting political and cultural differences. She stressed the importance of this approach in establishing effective and fruitful ties.
Hirut further emphasized that the world is faced with large-scale challenges that have never been seen before and that all countries must use their cultural values to overcome this difficult time, and that they must aspire and work hard to leave a comfortable and humane world for future generations.
It is learned that the artworks being exhibited at the event portray the celebration of holidays, the scenic beauty of rural Ethiopia, the nation’s ancient history spanning from the Axumite civilizations to the Harar period, and the exploration of ancient science and astronomy through remarkable works of art. Additionally, the paintings depict the history of Ethiopia’s unprecedented conquests. Some of these artworks are said to be nearly a century old and are preserved as cultural heritage at Ale Art School.
The Embassy confirmed that the art exhibition will be open to visitors for a few more days.