A Duo Exhibition by Tibeb Sirak and Birhanu Manaye

The two artists explore the intricate world of patterns and textures, examining their influence on memory, the subconscious, and the human experience. The exhibition transcends the notion of patterns as mere stylistic choices, revealing them as profound thematic elements that shape our lives. Patterns manifest as repetitive sequences of behavior, thoughts, or emotions, playing a pivotal role in both our personal growth and obstacles. Sirak and Manaye invite viewers to reflect on how recurring elements pervade our existence, highlighting both their potential to uplift and their tendency to ensnare us. Their artworks serve as a visual narrative that encourages introspection and self-awareness about the patterns governing our lives.

 

Tibeb Sirak explores the human experience and cultural heritage through temporal boundaries, celebrating the profound symbiosis between humanity and nature. He masterfully blends woodcut prints and acrylics to emphasize the impact of patterns on daily existence, drawing from Somali and Ethiopian cultures to convey themes of unity and cultural resonance. Through vibrant colors, harmonious textures, and repetitive shapes, Sirak’s artworks reflect the beauty and diversity of life’s rhythms and serve as a visual narrative of cultural heritage and shared experiences.

 

Birhanu Manaye investigates the profound interconnectedness of existence, drawing inspiration from unseen forces that shape both the natural world and human consciousness. He employs acrylics and screen prints to explore the delicate interplay between colors, forms, and elemental motifs, offering a contemplative meditation on the intricate patterns that interlace through life. Elements such as earth, clouds, roots, and veins serve as metaphors for these unseen forces, reflecting both the physical and spiritual realms. Through dynamic forms and horizontal lines that echo nature's essential rhythms, Manaye prompts viewers to reflect on the intricate details of the natural world and our connection to the cosmos.

 

“Thought patterns, the recurring ways we think, exert a profound influence on our daily lives. They shape our perceptions, emotions, actions, and ultimately the course of our lives. From how we interpret experiences to how we interact with others, our thoughts act as filters and drivers, shaping our emotional well-being and relationships.

The impact of collective consciousness, the shared beliefs and values of a group, adds another layer to this influence through cultural norms, social trends, and shared values.”

Birhanu Manaye (July 2024, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia)

 

Manaye and Sirak offer a rich exploration of diversity, identity, and the cyclical nature of existence. While Manaye celebrates the natural world's complexity and spiritual depth, Sirak illuminates cultural heritage and the universal themes of pattern and repetition. Together, their works invite viewers to consider how patterns shape our identities, relationships, and understanding of the world, celebrating the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring beauty found within these patterns.