Sioux Falls, SD (11/24/2025) — The Visual Arts Center at the Washington Pavilion invites the community to experience “Through Their Eyes,” a cross-cultural exhibition featuring artwork created by children from Sioux Falls and from regions of Ethiopia affected by conflict. Curated by Ethiopian American artist Eyob Mergia, the exhibition reveals how drawing becomes a universal language children use to express memory, fear, imagination and hope.

The gallery includes hundreds of drawings that explore the contrast between peace and instability. Students from Susan B. Anthony and Eugene Field Elementary Schools created artwork that reflects daily life, friendship and joyful moments. Children in Ethiopia contributed drawings shaped by their lived experiences of displacement and uncertainty. Together, the works form a powerful conversation about resilience and the emotional clarity children bring to their surroundings.

A new video released for the exhibition features Mergia, local educators and participating students. Their reflections provide deeper context for the project and highlight how art can help children process what they cannot always express in words.

“‘Through Their Eyes’ gives our community a chance to see how children understand their world through drawing,” says Jana Anderson, Lead Curator for the Visual Arts Center. “The artwork is honest and revealing. It shows the contrast between peace and conflict with a clarity only children can offer. We’re grateful to share this exhibition and the video that deepens the story behind it.”

“Through Their Eyes” is on view through January 4 in the Visual Arts Center. Visitors are encouraged to watch the accompanying video and explore the exhibition before it closes. For more exhibition information, visit WashingtonPavilion.org/Art.

About Washington Pavilion Management, Inc. (WPMI)
Washington Pavilion Management, Inc. is a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and the largest arts organization in the state. The management company oversees and programs two historic City of Sioux Falls facilities: the Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science and the Orpheum Theater Center. The company also provides professional management services, including administration; arts, science and educational programming; ticketing; event management; marketing; and more to other arts and nonprofit organizations. For information, please visit WashingtonPavilion.org.

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