BY LEULSEGED WORKU
Making pots out of clay in Ethiopia harkens back to the birth of Christ. Pottery remains a popular tradition in different corners of the country. However, this magnificent time-old skill largely remains non- rewarding.
Ethiopia is among the pioneer countries where pottery tradition and craftsmanship play an important role in the lives of citizens. But we have not properly used our time-old experience to further improve the skills, says Girma Woldesemayat.
The fact that it has received less attention and investment has affected the tradition ultimately contributing negligible share in the economy.
“Ministry of Tourism and Culture and others did not play much role in promoting the industry`s share to the national economy. If exploited well, pottery could be one of the sources of foreign currency and means of livelihood for thousands.”
Girma said, Ethiopians have started practicing pottery long before the birth of Christ. “However, we did not properly utilize that opportunity to earn more money out of it. The nation has got all the necessary inputs and expertise. But, we did not fully exploit that industry.”
Ethiopians have best quality model for pot productions in the world but the modern generation is more interested in imported items rather than exploiting local skills and traditions.
He also commented that, having a special pottery museum will have a significant role in supporting the industry and attracting tourists.
Meheret Dawit, is the other expert in the area who is currently engaged in modern pottery production. According to her, the traditional way of undermining traditional potters have discouraged the business. But, it does not mean the industry is not functioning.
According to Meheret, producing pots out of clay is not a simple process. It needs perseverance and passion.
According to her, if modern technologies are added to the traditional skills, the quality and design of pottery products will be upgraded, she said, adding that whenever tourists come to Ethiopia, they look to visit local traditions. They love to buy our goods with reasonable price. In this respect, concerned organs should encourage and support potters, she added.
“We Africans have indigenous culture and skills but we did not utilize the skills to promote our identity.” There is weakness in blending the traditional cultures with the modern ones. “Whenever a certain hotel is made here, there is a tendency to decorate it with imported designs and luxury collections.
This is something we should change. We Africans have local wisdom. We have a time-old culture of producing pots out of clay with our bare hands. In this regard, we should promote local technology.”
Alem Getachew is the other woman artist who owns a gallery here in Addis. Seconding the view of Meheret, she said: “Potter craftsmen are the jewels of our culture. Their works are a true reflection of our identity. However, they have not yet got the right reward from their work.”
If practitioners are provided with the right training, the tradition could serve as one of the generators of foreign income. Therefore, it is one area of job opportunity, she added.
The Ethiopian Herald December 5/2020
