The Zoma Contemporary Art Centre has gained international notoriety for its unique design and decorations. But the construction of the facility isn’t the only thing that sets them apart from traditional art museums in Ethiopia – their desire to produce and promote environmentally friendly art is another unique trait that resonates with visitors. EBR’s Meseret Mamo visited the Centre to speak with the owners and hear what visitors think of their unique take on art creation and presentation.

When people speak of Ethiopia’s artistic tradition, it’s likely they are referring to the techniques and styles that have predominated Ethiopian art for centuries. What’s more difficult to find, art insiders say, is a culture that appreciates and consumes contemporary Ethiopian art in a meaningful way. Despite the difficulty in bringing about this culture, many in the country’s artistic community are hopeful things will change gradually. EBR’s Meseret Mamo spoke with a few members of the community to explore the economic and social benefits that may come if their vision comes to fruition.

Culture Centre Pays Homage to Alganesh Tariku

If you are familiar with the recent history of Ethiopia’s artistic community, then you have probably heard of the actress and dancer Alganesh Tariku. The renowned artist is regarded for her time as a dancer and stage performer at Ethiopia’s National Theatre and can now be seen on the TV show Wazema. Her decades-long career was recently honoured at the Ethiopian Cultural Centre. The Centre is one among a few institutions that are actively working to preserve the history of Ethiopia’s rich artistic tradition through commemorating prolific individuals. EBR’s Meseret Mamo attended the ceremony and sheds more light on the work being done to give credit to the country’s most respected artists.

One trend that appears to be growing among Ethiopian musicians is the practice of covering: rerecording old songs by new artists in order to give the song new life. Up-and-coming musicians say that covering old songs is a good way to gain exposure by introducing the artists to new audiences through famous songs. Others, however, feel the practice compromises the integrity of the original song and musician, and thwarts creativity in the music industry. EBR’s Meseret Mamo spoke with industry insiders to get a closer look at the debate and to see if any consensus can be reached on this controversial issue.

The art of creating pottery is a tradition that dates back centuries in Ethiopia. For generations, artisans have used their skills to craft a number of items, including coffee pots, bowls, plates and incense burners, among other goods. Despite the importance of these items in the Ethiopian artistic tradition, the crafting of pottery seems to be a dying trend. The Amatate Chaka Women Potters Association in Kechene, however, is hoping to change that, by providing women a space to create their items and sell them to potential buyers. EBR’s Meseret Mamo visited the Association to learn more about the women who work there and how they’re hoping to keep the tradition alive.

Art for Charity Works to Create Warm Environment for Hospitalised Children

Hospitalisation can be difficult for anyone, but especially so for children. The often cold and confusing environments aren’t particular conducive to making kids feel welcomed; not to mention the fact that children are often in the hospital due to an ailment of some sort. Art for Charity, an NGO with offices in America and Ethiopia, is hoping to change the environment for children by painting paediatric wards with bright, colourful murals in order to liven the atmosphere. Physicians and artists say that the artwork has helped to improve the overall mood of the patients who spend time in the ward. EBR’s Meseret Mamo spoke with the NGO’s Ethiopia director, artists, and physicians to learn more about the program and the services they provide for kids in need.

A New Business Pops Up in Shiro Meda

A slowdown in business caused by skyrocketing prices as raw material costs escalate and dynamism in the ever changing fashion design of traditional clothes pushes entrepreneurs in Shiro Meda to come up with new ways to make outfits for special occasions affordable. EBR’s Meseret Mamo writes about the blossom of the traditional and modern clothing rental business

I love movies. I love movies that leave me thinking about the whole story. I love movies that have lively characters that will, in the end, seem like they are my new friends who I care about the most. Whatever the genre, I love movies that will go straight to my heart and wander there for some while.

It’s the holiday season again! The time of year where almost all local radio stations play traditional songs to hype up listeners and boost the holiday spirit; it is that season where incredibly large numbers of sheep, goats and oxen get ready to go to their new “homes”; it is that season where you will see long lines of women with their ‘netela’ around the gates of ELFORA or other chicken and egg wholesalers; it is that season where you will see a lot of shoppers here and there making sure they have every food and ingredient to cook for the holiday!