Artist Fanuel Weldegebriel

Oil painting on Canvas

65 × 60 cm

Henery’s Story

“My name is Henery Mekonen I am 10 years old, I am from Adebay, now residing in Mekele clinic IDP center. I go to school in Atse Yohannes. My favorite food is pasta.”

Art Statement

This portrait captures the poignant gaze of a Tigrayan internally displaced child, seen from above. Their wide, searching eyes reflect a silent plea for protection, a longing for peace, and the hope for a brighter future.

By focusing on the child's expression, the painting transcends the personal, speaking universally to the plight of displaced children worldwide. The elevated viewpoint creates an intimate yet respectful distance, urging the viewer to reflect on their role in shaping a future that safeguards innocence and nurtures potential. More than just a portrait, this work is a call to action, a reminder of shared humanity, and a testament to resilience amid hardship. Through color, texture, and light, it amplifies the silent voices of those who dream of peace yet remain in waiting, yearning for its long-overdue embrace.

Artist Biography

Fanuel Weldegebriel is an artist who has pursued art from childhood, attending institutions such as Mekelle Art College, Teferi Mekonen, and Addis Ababa University’s School of Art. His artistic journey has been shaped by formal training and personal exploration, allowing him to develop a unique style influenced by culture and experience. Fanuel continues to refine his craft, contributing to the evolving art scene in Tigray.