Smiling Skulls :)
In memory of 100,000+ martyrs
On November 3, 2020, the sound of gunfire just before midnight signaled the beginning of an ongoing civil war in Tigray - the land of my ancestors. With merciless attacks on the sacred land and people, Tigray was veiled in death and darkness.
One year later, Tigray still fights for survival.
Interestingly enough, this date lies between two sacred festivities in other world cultures.
Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) x Diwali (Festival of Lights)
Mexico x India
The skulls for Day of the Dead are a playful symbol of life after death, representing those who have died engaging in their favorite activities. The martyrs of Tigray were noble people who fought for their sovereignty but engaged in the everyday bliss of life.
Their fate did not end in turmoil, but in resistance.
And their souls remain with us forever.
Dedicated to 70,000 + civilians who have been killed, many soldiers who died on the battlefield and those we will never know about.
So why do some skulls smile?
Diwali is a festival of new beginnings
The triumph of good over evil
Light over darkness.
Some skulls smile,
As the dead are aware
That triumph is near
And darkness is fleeting
No longer veiled
Tigray has arrived
For its new life after death
Welcome to the afterlife :)
#ART4TIGRAY
