An artistic exploration of sports through the lens of photography, street art, poetry, and music.June 20 to October 31, 2024
In celebration of the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics being held in Paris, the Alliance Ethio-Francaise, supported by the French Embassy in Ethiopia, is hosting a photography exhibition showcasing the magic and diversity of sports movements. Hundreds of photos taken by six French and Ethiopian photographers will be illuminated using various formats and cadences.
The event also embraces new technologies, notably with the creation of a virtual reality (VR) film titled “The Golden Stride.” This film features the renowned Ethiopian champion Gudaf Tsegay, immersing us in a captivating journey into the heart of running competitions and athletic efforts. Each stride she takes on this historically rich land brings her closer to her ultimate goal: achieving athletic excellence and solidifying her name among the greats of Ethiopian sport.
To complement this celebration of art and sport, the exhibition includes a special commission to Ethiopian photographer Michel Temteme, titled “Icarus’s Dream”. With his artistic sensitivity and talent for transforming reality into chimera, Michel Temteme creates a levitating universe where each athlete merges with the sky, expressing pure grace.
“ART IS JUST BEGINNING” – Constantin Brancusi, Franco-Romanian sculptor, 1876-1957. This quote resonates with the essence of the “Ethiopia, Land of Champions” exhibition which is a starting point for as yet unexplored fusions of artistic expression. It is showcasing the alchemy of constantly pushing the boundaries of human achievement. It celebrates not only art and sports but also innovation, diversity, and creativity forging a subtle dialogue between Greek mythology, the Olympic spirit, photography, and the magic of shadow and light.
The event is skillfully orchestrated by the artistic direction of Mohamed Beldjoudi and the curation by Rahel Daniel and Melkam Gebru, ensuring a rich and stimulating experience for all visitors.
In summary, “Ethiopia, Land of Champions” is much more than just an exhibition; it is an ode to the beauty and power of art, sports, culture, and a vibrant tribute to Ethiopian champions and the Olympic spirit that transcends borders and inspires everyone to push their own limits.
EVENTS
The exhibition opens on June 20 at the Alliance Ethio-Française in Addis Ababa, with events planned at other cultural venues around the capital throughout the summer months and into October.
Fan Zone at Bole International Airport for the duration of the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Website: www.allianceaddis.org
Instagram: @aefaddis
Cover Photo Credit: Michel Temteme
(@michel_temteme)