Ethiopia

A Tribute in Clay: Inspired by Ethiopia

Twice I’ve had the privilege of travelling to Ethiopia to volunteer as a Respiratory Nurse. My work there focused on teaching local health professionals how to diagnose and manage asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)—conditions that are all too common, but often misunderstood or misdiagnosed in resource-limited settings.

Medical care in rural Ethiopia is vastly different from what we’re used to in the UK. In many of the places I visited—such as the Gondar and Jimma regions—access to diagnostic tools and medications is limited. This means that care must be adapted and creative, with a strong emphasis on education, clinical signs, and community support.

One key difference I quickly learned: COPD in Ethiopia is not typically linked to smoking, as it is in much of the Western world. Instead, it is often seen in women who spend their lives cooking in small, enclosed huts, exposed daily to smoke from open fires or rudimentary stoves. The air they breathe every day becomes a serious health risk. These women—central to family life and community survival—are among the most affected, yet their illness often goes unrecognised for years.

While my work was focused on healthcare, the heart of my memories from Ethiopia comes from the people. Warm, resilient, and always welcoming, Ethiopians carry a spirit of joy that shines brightly—even in the face of hardship.

One unforgettable experience was attending the Timket Festival, a celebration of Epiphany in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. It's a time of deep religious significance, marked by processions, chanting, and public re-enactments of the baptism of Christ. What struck me most was the explosion of colour—vivid ceremonial robes, intricate umbrellas, and the stunning traditional dress of the women. The whole festival pulses with music, movement, and meaning.

I created the Ceramic Ethiopian Lady Plaque as a personal tribute to this experience. She represents the women I met—strong, graceful, and full of quiet pride. Her form is simple, yet the details in her hair and clothing echo the traditions I witnessed at Timket and throughout my travels.

Art has always helped me process and reflect on life’s most impactful experiences. This piece is not just a decorative object—it’s a thank-you to the Ethiopian people, whose warmth, resilience, and strength have left a lasting impression on me.