- Select one of the eleven artists presented in the exhibit. (See enclosed list of artists and traditions.) At the museum, become a field researcher and learn everything you can about your artist and the tradition they represent. Write up an imaginary interview or an article. Try to include examples of how that tradition is practiced, shared, how it is changing and how it is an important part of the culture. [Note: This would be a good exercise to do with partners or small teams.]
- One goal of the exhibit is to show the diversity of the peoples and traditions of Ethiopia. As you go through the exhibit, think about the terms "cultural diversity" and "cultural crossroad." How is Ethiopia a culturally diverse country? Describe and give examples.
- Dr. Raymond Silverman, the Curator of this exhibition, suggests that the exhibit is not about art but about the creative process. What do you think he means by this? After seeing the exhibit, do you agree? Is the creative process emphasized? Give examples.
- In the Main Floor Gallery, there is a kiosk which discusses the concept of traditions. It suggests four themes: 1. traditions change, 2. traditions are passed on, 3. traditions define culture, and 4. traditions are shared. As you visit the exhibit, look for examples of each of these.
- One unusual item in the exhibit is models or sculptures made from sorghum stalks (cars, monuments, airplanes, etc.). Why do you think they are included in this exhibit? Do you think they are an example of a "tradition?" Visit the kiosk about traditions in the Main Floor Gallery. Do you think model-making is a tradition? Justify based on the themes and definitions of traditions presented in the kiosk.
- Many of the traditions in the exhibit were selected because of the cultural significance of the objects. In the Main Floor Gallery, the Harari baskets and the woven milk containers are both made only by women and both play significant roles in their cultures. Describe the significance of these two types of weaving in the life of the individual and their community. What do these traditions say about the role of the female in these cultures? How are these two traditions (and their cultures) similar, different?
- The paintings of Zerihun Yetmgeta (in the East Gallery) often combine and reflect the history and cultural heritage of Africa and of Ethiopia. Each painting interweaves a variety of images and ideas related to events and activities. Select one painting and write down all the images you can identify. What do you think they represent? Does the title of the painting influence how you interpret the painting? What feeling do you get from the paintings? How do you think Zerihun feels about his cultural heritage and future? For future activities, read about Ethiopian history and then see if you can identify more images.
- Paintings are one way a culture may record and share historical events, religious beliefs and information about everyday life. The paintings in the East Gallery reflect the past and the present life in Ethiopia. You are now the Curator of a small traveling exhibit about Ethiopia. Select four of the paintings for your exhibit. Describe them and write about how they represent and reflect the history and/or culture of Ethiopia.
- The marketplace is a vital part of most Ethiopian communities. Visit the marketplace in the Main Floor Gallery. Image that you are in Ethiopia. Describe the sounds, smells, activities. Select one item in the marketplace (basket, pot, etc.) you could purchase and then try to learn more about it in the rest of the exhibit. Describe what you would look for in a good pot, basket, or whatever item you select.
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