A Piece of Heaven

I am very grateful for Sudanese artist Hussein Mirghani, who drew this portrait upon visiting Fendika recently (June 16, 2021). Hussein said that he experienced “a piece of heaven” in Fendika. These are beautiful words that mean the world to me. Thank you brother for sharing your art and your heart with the Fendika community. Despite difficult politics, Sudanese and Ethiopian people can come together through art and through our deep cultural connections. When things were hard in Ethiopia, Sudan was the refuge for many Ethiopians, including my own mother, who lived in Sudan for 16 years. When I finally visited Sudan in 2017, I was amazed by the hospitality and generosity of our Sudanese brothers and sisters, and the rich histories of Sudan, including more than 200 ancient pyramids. I’m sure I will visit Sudan again; I feel drawn by the people, the art, and the history. I believe in the power of art to tear down barriers, and to bring peace, love and understanding, people to people, heart to heart.

Hussein Mirghani, White pencil on black board

Hussein Mirghani

This place is a piece of heaven…

To all my friends in Fendika Cultural center.. To my dear friend Mr. Melaku Belay (the owner of this wonderful place).

I would like to thank all the incredibly talented Artists performing at Fendika for sharing some of the Ethiopian magic with us!