UNFPA ‘for the fight against early marriage’

Stretch 100 metres of canvas onto a framework, apply 40 gallons of paint using 60 paintbrushes - add 30 premier local artists - and you have the framework for the longest, biggest most extraordinary painting ever painted in Ethiopia.

One hundred metres … have you tried to step that distance out? That’s one huge painting to document life – it’s very exciting. It will be the biggest painting ever painted.

The team of top Ethiopian contemporary artists is supported by UNFPA ‘for the fight against early marriage’. The selected artists have different styles and backgrounds but all have a common wish to be involved in the cause. “It’s not a women’s problem, it’s everyone’s problem”.

With such a varied group of inspired, energetic and experienced artists, it will be intriguing to see how they all come together and develop their creativity and expression into just one piece of work.
Artist Kidist Hailu Degaffe said “ it’s a good focus. Art is the key to solving social problems. Painting is a good communicator, it has the power to show emotion and movement. As a woman, it’s my duty, it’s a must to perform to solve the social problems I see in my country. It’s a driving force”.

“It’s really the time” says another artist, Genet Alemu, “I can give my time and support if it can help to improve the situation. Whoever is working for this cause – don’t give up”. Aster Seyuome added “ i’m really happy to be selected, I want to reflect the pain women are facing with my brush ”.

The huge canvas will be set up in Meskel Square, a central place for the public to view the artists at work.

The first paint strokes to hit the canvas will be on Thursday morning March 6. Painting will continue all day Friday and finish off with the involvement of national and international dignitaries on Saturday, coinciding with International Women’s Day and the launch of the DKT Run for Women’s registration.