Blue Circle is an art exhibition that explores how culture, history, and personal experiences shape our identities. It encourages self-exploration and redefinition throughout life. Curated by Ethiopian artist Luladey Takele Teshome, the exhibition runs from July 25-27 at Mundi Center. Luladey is known for highlighting African stories, including her own and those of other talented creatives. The show features artworks such as Blue Moon, The Girl in Me, Delicate, Hands, The Gaze, In Hiding, So What, and Bold Blue, categorized into acrylic paintings and ink sketches. ALSO READ: Kigali Youth festival exhibition presents creativity, innovation Teshome selected art pieces that had a personal impact on her, aiming to bring her imagination to life through these works. One such piece is Blue Moon, representing rare, once-in-a-lifetime events. The curator explains, Life has its highs and lows, but it's all part of the journey. Each moment is unique and can only be experienced once. If you're sad about something, that feeling won't be the same every time it happens. It changes. We need to recognise and be present in these moments. The artwork Cotton Has Picked Me addresses the history of Africans during slavery. Luladey said, Picking cotton was a part of our ancestors' lives. Coming from Ethiopia, cotton is part of our heritage. This piece shows that our connection to cotton is deep, going beyond just picking it—it chose us first. ALSO READ: Kigali Triennial Festival: Distinctive African art, culture takes center stage Luladey explained that in art, the colour blue and the circle shape carry many meanings, influenced by culture, history, and personal views. I believe blue and the circle is closely linked to the journey of self-discovery and personal identity, she said. Blue symbolises the parts of our identity shaped by external factors. But our true essence comes from within, based on truth and self-acceptance. Our true values and personal growth can't be fully achieved by meeting external expectations. We must look inside ourselves, question our beliefs, and understand our emotions to authentically navigate our identities. About Luladey Takele Teshome Born and raised in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Luladey has lived in Rwanda for the past six years. Her passion for African storytelling through art and culture has always driven her. From a young age, Luladey has been fascinated by art. She has explored various creative mediums, including painting, design, photography, and ink sketching. She currently works as a consultant in arts project management at the British Council in Kigali.
