As promised, I wanted to share some additional photos from my visit to the Embassy of Chad during the 2024 Around The World Passport DC event. Previously, I discussed what you can expect during the first week of the event, and some strategies for maximizing your time at the participating embassies. However, I was moved by the striking artwork at the Embassy of Chad, and I felt the art deserved its own post.

The Embassy of Chad is one of the smaller spaces on Embassy Row, but don’t let that fool you: within the modest space was a gracious staff and a powerful art exhibit. The embassy’s walls featured the art of Doff, a Chadian artist that uses trash and other found materials to tenderly capture the beauty and heartbreak of life in Chad.

The pieces masterfully use materials as their own storytelling devices, a tactic used with gut-wrenching effectiveness. One piece in particular, “Flower of Evil” is composed of used bullet casings, a clear reference to the warfare that has haunted Chad in previous decades.

The intricate metal work, heartwarming depictions, and intimate understanding of the heart and soul of his people all make Doff an artist to watch. He has a gift that allows viewers to not only enjoy the art for what it is, but also prompts the audience to think behind the aesthetic and technical skill on display in each piece.

I’m so glad that I took the time to visit this embassy, and I look forward to visiting them again.