Dubai-based Ethiopian artist diagnosed with a rare condition can only paint lying down

Dubai-based Ethiopian artist diagnosed with a rare condition can only paint lying down

The art of resilience

Published: Thu 1 Sep 2022, 9:20 PM

Painting a picture is hard enough. But can you imagine the added challenge of painting while lying down? An Ethiopian artist in Dubai is breaking all stereotypes with his art, and lying down is the only way he can paint.

It was at the age of seven that Brook Yeshitila, who was born in 1982, discovered his love for art. As a child, he would be more excited about getting crayons and art supplies than receiving new toys and clothes. Brook says he used to take summer art courses that would be way too advanced for his age and that’s where he learned the fine techniques. With an astute eye for colours and remarkable sketching, people around Brook knew he was a rising star.

By the time he turned 12, Brook was diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis — a rare, progressive form of arthritis affecting the spine and large joints of arms and legs. The condition immobilised his entire body when he was 17 except his arms, a reason why he had to eventually drop out of school.

Brook remembers this as a very challenging time in his life. He did not leave bed for