The exhibition initially opened in the United Kingdom has traveled to Amsterdam and Rotterdam in the Netherlands drawing critical acclaim.
Addishiwot took time out from her hectic schedule to conduct this interview
May 2nd, 2015 was a very special day for you because your Roots Ethiopian Photo Exhibition 2015 Tour came into fruition at the Fairfield House in Bath, England. Tell us more about the exhibition; is it about Ethiopian people, culture and of course Rastafari and reggae music?
How long did it take you to bring the exhibition into reality?
Addishiwot – It took me 3months from October 2014 to January 2nd 2015; this was the opening of my roots exhibition.
To curate an exhibition at the Fairfield House, the former residence of Emperor Haile Selassie while he was in exile is of significant proportion. What is the essence of curating Roots Ethiopian Photo Exhibition 2015 Tour at the Fairfield House?
This exhibition is very special to me. As an Ethiopian woman I am honored to have my exhibition at the former home of the Ethiopian Emperor. It gives me great pleasure and I am very grateful to have this opportunity and I give thanks to Almighty God for helping me to utilize this chance. It goes without saying that the uniqueness of the title of the exhibition “Roots” is to remember my past because without roots there is no tree. My Ethiopian roots are so many, so deep and so strong that they hold the whole tree straight up and ever green.
Prince Michael Mekonnen, the grandson of Emperor Selassie attended the exhibition, was he the only family member of the Emperor who came to the exhibition?
Addishiwot– Prince Michael Mekonen and 15 of H.I.M family attended the closing of my ROOTS exhibition.
You also recently in June curated the exhibition in Amsterdam & Rotterdam, respectively. Are there any plans to take it to Africa?
I am ready to expose my work to a wider audience. I am now a resident here in the UK and I will continue to expand awareness of my Brands and my range of clothing and jewellery through Photographic Exhibitions in outlets across the UK, Europe and Africa.
To curate an exhibition takes resources (money), all kinds of logistics and time. But yet Roots Ethiopian Photo Exhibition 2015 Tour was free to the public. How can you afford it?
Addishiwot– my profit comes from the sale of my merchandise. I sell hand craft jewelry, clothing and of course my beautiful art work. I also have private investors who believe in my talents and support me in my work. They see my potential and want to continue supporting and helping me financially in the future.
Most Ethiopian names have meanings. What does your name Addishiwot means?
Addishiwot– Addishiwot, means “New Life”. I am a self-employed Photographer, Jewelry, Clothing Designer and Manufacturer born in Arba Minch which is in the southern part of Ethiopia. I have always admired the abundant beauty of my motherland. Growing up there inspired me on a multitude of levels. I speak English, French, Spanish and Amharic; these languages are widely spoken in Ethiopia. There are 82 languages and 200 dialects in Ethiopia
Amesegenalew – Amharic for thank you!
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