Threads of Vulnerability

The story of Tsion Mehari’s first exhibition, By A Thread, began three years ago when she submitted her art to Studio 11. We put out a simple call on our Instagram page, inviting young artists to share their work with us. The 22 year old architect, Tsion responded right away. She came to her interview, bringing not only her paintings but also her biggest fan, her father. He sat protectively beside her as she showed us her work, a quiet yet steady supporter, proud and encouraging every step of the way.

Seeing Tsion’s work take over our gallery walls (October 19th to November 20th, 2024) has been a surreal and joyful experience. Her debut collection, painted on wallpaper with acrylics, is both raw and magnetic. She discovered wallpaper as a canvas during her family’s home renovation, and it’s become the perfect medium for her art. Each piece absorbs emotion as well as paint, capturing the quiet struggles and unspoken resilience of young people. Tsion’s portraits challenge a common expectation that we keep our emotions hidden and instead, offer a rare look into the vulnerability we all carry.

Opening day was electric. People filled the gallery, sharing laughter, tears, and a sense of shared understanding. It’s been heartening to see how visitors respond to Tsion’s work, especially young people who say they finally feel “seen and heard.” The audience response has been overwhelming; people linger in the gallery, absorbed in the pieces, flipping through her sketchbook on display, and even working on their own sketches at our designated corner. 

Afro Coffee, our partner and supporter, has been with us every step of the way, helping us bring this exhibition to life. Their belief in our mission to uplift young Ethiopian artists has been crucial in making By A Thread possible. We’re grateful to host this exhibition that highlights such an important conversation about vulnerability, resilience, and connection. And this is just the beginning.

There’s more to come at Studio 11, and we’re excited to take you along. If you’d like to make one of these powerful pieces your own, feel free to explore the collection on our website or email us directly at information@studio11.et.