Statement
The people who work in the markets in Ethiopia are among the hardest-working people in the world. Many are young people who make a living by repeating dozens of tasks: carrying heavy loads of wood, shouldering bags of lentils, keeping headstrong animals in line. They work day into night into day, energy levels high, keenly aware of the activity around them. The competition for pay is fierce, and street smarts help them make their living. Though they work at the lower economic rung, their physical appearance portrays a zealous pride. Heads are held high, eyes seeking contact - a quest to be seen as they are: productive and honored citizens. Even the most threadbare clothing is worn with dignity and grace. These images provide a glimpse into this fascinating group of people, the market workers of Ethiopia, showing the variety of goods they sell, the colorful clothing they wear, and the range of personalities they portray. With no direction or alteration from anyone, each person enthusiastically commanded their own presence before you, excited by the idea that they will be admired by the viewer. Several of these images have garnered Gold awards in the PX3 Competition in Paris, France and have Honorable Mentions from the International Photography Awards. An exhibition was held in the National Museum of Ethiopia during the 2014 Addis Foto Fest and the prints have been shown in other galleries. the proceeds from print sales enabled the recent publication of The Market Workers book, designed by Dardinelle Troen. The images are printed on archival fine art paper and mounted on archival black sintra measuring 22X28 and they sell in editions of five.
