The triumph of individuality: a unique painting by an Ethiopian artist at the "Legacy for the Future" exposition

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The exposition "Legacy for the Future" at the National Centre RUSSIA conveys the notion of a future where every individual is valuable and unique in their own way. A painting with the unusual title "The Name I Refused to Earn (26922)" reflects on the importance of preserving individuality amid the daily hustle of life.

Through a whimsical allegory, the painting presents visitors with an autobiographical narrative. Yared Tadesse, a graduate of the Addis Ababa University School of Fine Arts and Design (Ethiopia), depicted himself in the artwork. The figure of a young man wearing a respirator is surrounded by polygonal details symbolizing aircraft engines, which the artist used to paint while working for a large company. The respirator signifies hazardous working conditions, while the peculiar number 26922 represents the actual employee number under which the aspiring artist performed his duties.

"As in many other large enterprises, employees are assigned a specific number upon hiring. This number is used to access the premises, perform their duties, and receive their salary, replacing their name in everyday interactions. However, the artist rebels against this rule. Through his work, he seems to say: 'I do not want to be a number; I am a human being, and I have a name.' The butterflies and horses depicted in the painting serve as symbols of personal liberation," explained Alexander Gaineyev, a guide at the National Centre RUSSIA. 

It is easy to guess that the artist refused to accept the depersonalizing rule in the company and ultimately left to pursue a career as a professional artist.

"This painting encourages us to reflect on how we might truly lose our individuality and end up living someone else's life without even realizing it. For example, by completely dissolving ourselves in those we deeply love. Yet, a person is born to freely express themselves as an individual, resist manipulation, continually grow, realize their talents, and showcase them to the world," said Maria Kalashnikova, a visitor to the Exposition from the Saratov region who traveled to Moscow.

The exposition "Legacy for the Future" presents works by young artists from six countries: Russia, China, India, Brazil, Ethiopia, and Iran. Through their art, these creators offer personal responses to contemporary challenges. They reflect on the present, express their attitude towards the past, and contemplate the future.

Visitors to the National Centre can explore the exposition independently or join free guided tours, available in 30-minute or one-hour formats. Registration is available on the website under the "Events" section.