Yatreda’s Abyssinian Queen series portrays the journey and entourage of an Ethiopian queen traversing kingdoms, navigating the mystical forests in between. The series marks a new direction in Yatreda’s artistic practice—a move away from known Ethiopian history and firmly-rooted folklore. Instead, Abyssinian Queen visualizes a fictional narrative imagined by two sisters, Kiya and Roman Tadele, during their childhood in the Ethiopian countryside.
Directed by Kiya Tadele and brought to life by her family and community, the series emerges from a collaborative effort that blends historical artifacts with handcrafted props, highlighting the deep cultural and familial connections underpinning its creation.
For Yatreda, this turn towards the fantastical serves as a therapeutic counterbalance to the challenges of Ethiopian development and modernization. The series evokes themes of fertility and renewal, inviting viewers to reflect on Ethiopia's grand past and its potential for future rebirth. Through this blend of ancient motifs and modern technology, Yatreda ensures the lasting celebration and preservation of Ethiopian heritage.