Limbo – Admas Habteslasie screening

In partnership with Rich Mix, Autograph ABP presents the second in a changing series of continuous screenings and projections of artists’ projects.

'It’s a unique thing that photography can do, to present a historical document and personal story at the same time’ – Admas Habteslasie.

‘The fight for Eritrean independence started in 1961 and lasted until 1991, when the rebel movement The Eritrean People’s Liberation Front defeated the Ethiopian army. In 1993, Eritrea declared its independence after a UN-supervised national referendum. Yet this beacon of hope soon faded amidst border disputes that have led to additional fighting. Violent outbreaks have taken Eritrea to the brink of full-fledged warfare as recently as 2008.

‘Eritrea and Ethiopia continue to exist in a state of semi-war and semi-peace, and it is this psychological space, rather than the details of history, that Admas Habteslasie has concentrated on. He photographs people and cities suspended in a limbo where optimism coexists with evidence of a precarious existence. Along with its people, Eritrea seems to be in a holding pattern, waiting for something that could move life forward.

‘Habteslasie’s Limbo creates a quiet and dignified portrait of Eritrea. He has grouped his photographs into three time frames: past, future and present. Each grouping references a particular aspect of Eritrean history, while also describing contemporary life.

‘Habteslasie was born in Kuwait to Eritrean parents, who had left their homeland before he was born. This project has been an opportunity to forge a personal bond with his country of origin.’
- Hannah Frieser, Director, Light Work, Syracuse University.

Source: Autograph ABP.