African Legacies Through the Lens of Ethiopian Contemporary Fine Artist Prince Merid Tafesse
AQJ Harvest History is aimed to “Inspire others to reach great heights. Preserving fragile histories and bring unique experiences to life” was the inspiration for the Art Talk by Ethiopian contemporary fine artist, Prince Merid Tafesse and Pan African Creative Consultant & Curator, Dr. Desta Meghoo. African American history has been disconnected from Africa for a host of reasons including the re-writing of history, pre-slavery, in order to perpetuate various forms of neo-colonialism racism, discrimination and (white superiority). Prince Merid Tafesse connects African Americans, with emphasis on the south, through his contemporary art created in the US over the past several months while traveling between Washington DC, Atlanta, GA and Ocala, Fl. His art illustrates commonalities in culture and the need for a strong African identity – spiritual, cultural, social and geo-political – shared by kith and kin of African ancestry. The Talk debunked myths that separate Blacks at home and abroad while building bridges through common concerns and mutual aspirations. Prince Merid and Dr. Desta presented a vibrant talk surrounded by his contemporary art, bringing to life history, present and future of valued narratives, experiences and artistic creations.
Pictured left: Prince Merid Tafesse paints a portrait during the Living & Linking art exhibition.
Pictured below: Attendees gathered at the A. Quinn Jones Museum in Gainesville on September 25th for the Living & Linking exhibition.
