Selamawit Alene, the owner of St. George Golla Art Gallery, is a prominent figure in the world of interior design and fine art. Combining her passion for art and design, Selam opened Golla Art Gallery in the picturesque surroundings of Golla Park in 2018. Her vision was to create a curated space where fine art could intersect with high-end artisan creations, catering to both collectors and art enthusiasts. Golla Art Gallery has since become a hub for showcasing the works of leading Ethiopian fine artists, while also collaborating with embassies, private organizations, and public institutions to promote arts and culture through special events.
In this exclusive interview with Capital, Selamawit Alene shares her insights and experiences, particularly focusing on her recent collaboration with artist Prince Merid Tafesse. She discusses her journey in the fine art business, emphasizing key moments that have shaped her career. Additionally, as a curator for the UNESCO/Gerar initiative, Selamawit sheds light on the initiative’s role in empowering young women in the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) sector in Ethiopia. Finally, she explores the potential opportunities arising from the development of digital presence for women creatives in the realm of digital art.
Capital: Can you share your expectations and insights from working closely with Artist Prince Merid Tafesse?
Selamawit Alene: Before this exhibition, I hadn’t had the pleasure of meeting Prince Merid. Our introduction came through Dr. Desta, (Creative Consultant and Curator). Prince Merid is an exceptional artist; his style invokes a myriad of emotions, and the dedication evident in his work is remarkable. Witnessing his pieces is truly an unparalleled experience. I am thrilled to showcase his work in my gallery and eagerly anticipate future opportunities for collaboration.
Capital: Could you elaborate on your journey into the fine art business, highlighting key moments that shaped your career?
Selamawit: Having immersed myself in the fine art business for numerous years, pinpointing just a handful of moments that have shaped my career proves challenging. It has been a transformative journey marked by continual learning about art, artists, and the intricacies of the industry.
Capital: As a Curator for the UNESCO/Gerar initiative, how do you see the initiative contributing to the growth and empowerment of young women in the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) sector in Ethiopia?
Selamawit: The UNESCO/Gerar initiative has crafted a comprehensive and multi-sectional organizational approach aimed at fostering sustainable and scalable economic empowerment for women. This presents a significant opportunity for young artists to engage and benefit from.
Capital: What opportunities do you anticipate arising from this digital presence development for women creatives in digital art?
Selamawit: Maintaining a robust online presence offers both businesses and artists a valuable platform to enhance visibility and connect with a vast audience. With the appropriate resources and promotion, their art can garner significant attention from potential customers or those interested in their artworks.
As Prince Merid Tafesse, an esteemed Ethiopian fine artist, prepares to celebrate his 25-year retrospective exhibition titled “LI’ILIT/PRINCESS Homage to Mother” at Golla Art Gallery, the anticipation for this landmark event is palpable. Nestled in his Kazanches home, known as Moa Anbessa Art Studio Gallery, Prince Merid has not only honed his craft but also provided a nurturing space for emerging artists, offering mentorship and guidance. With his artworks adorning Embassy and Museum collections and exhibitions spanning over 30 countries, Prince Merid’s artistic journey is as rich and diverse as his creations. Recently honored at the Belgrade Biennial 2023 as Artist of the Year and winner of best video submission, Prince Merid continues to make waves in the global art scene.
In this exclusive interview with Capital, Prince Merid Tafesse shares his insights and reflections on his upcoming exhibition and his illustrious career. He delves into the central message behind “LI’ILIT/PRINCESS Homage to Mother,” shedding light on the profound influence of his mother and his commitment to preserving Ethiopian heritage through his art. Reflecting on his collaborations with prominent women in the arts, Prince Merid discusses his partnership with Selam Alene at Golla Art Gallery and the expectations for their collaboration. Lastly, drawing from his extensive experience, Prince Merid offers valuable advice to the emerging generation of Ethiopian artists, particularly women, navigating the art world and aspiring for success in their careers.
As the art world eagerly awaits the unveiling of “LI’ILIT/PRINCESS Homage to Mother,” Prince Merid Tafesse’s interview provides a glimpse into the passion, dedication, and vision that have defined his remarkable journey as an artist.
Capital: Amidst celebrating your 25-year retrospective and 50th birthday, paying homage to your mother Li’ilit through portrayals of women, what central message do you aim to convey through this exhibition?
Merid Tafesse: I want to emphasize and acknowledge my mother, whom I unconsciously followed into who I am now as an artist. By copying her drawings also seeing her courage to embrace her identity as a member of the Imperial Ethiopian Family in a very difficult time. This taught me to respect and honor my history and lineage and ensure my continued contributions to Ethiopia and the world through my art.
Capital: Reflecting on your collaborations with prominent women in the arts, including Rita Marley and Meskerem Assegued, how does working with Selam Alene at Golla Art Gallery add to your experiences? What expectations do you have for this collaboration?
Merid: It is very natural for me to work with creative women and for the past 25 years of my art career it has been mostly women gallerists and curators, including my wife Dr. Desta who has managed me for the past 17 years.
As to Selam, she is a woman of action with meticulous planning and implementation with an eye for detail. She is hands on, a true artist who appreciates fine art and is committed to advancing the fine art in Ethiopia. I am excited to see how the more than 150 works will be curated at Golla. Trusting her vision and long track record, I know it will be an incredible exhibition and I will definitely continue collaborating with Selam beyond the show. She is a prime example for Women creatives and professionals in general.
Capital: With an extensive art career spanning 25 years, international exhibitions, and notable commissions, what advice do you offer to the emerging generation of Ethiopian artists, particularly women, navigating the art world and seeking success in their careers?
Merid: They have to be committed with passion to drive thier art making. They must be loyal to the divine gift of their artistic talent and develop these talents with a true sense of love and loyalty. Using the challenges and struggles that will come for sure, artists can create visual stories that express so much in order to inspire and instigate. For women artist in particular, who do not get the same opportunities as male counterparts, having a senior female artist as a mentor is always good and using the digital space to seek out opportunities including networking with art groups is also helpful.
