2026 State of the Art Prize, Washington

About Futsum Tsegai

Seattle, WA

Futsum Tsegai is a filmmaker whose work delves into themes of memory, identity, and cultural inheritance through a blend of poetic, immersive storytelling. Futsum’s practice is rooted in personal exploration and the reconnection to their Eritrean heritage. Their work often blends documentary and experimental techniques, capturing intimate narratives that highlight the complexities of cultural identity and belonging. Growing up in the Eritrean diaspora, Futsum has long navigated the complexities of living between two worlds, and their work reflects a deep engagement with the nuances of displacement and the search for connection to one’s roots. Memhr , Futsum’s current project, is a deeply personal exploration of their familial legacy, intertwining themes of grief, love, and resilience as they reconnect with the cultural narratives of their ancestors. Futsum’s films strive to honor the stories of those who are often overlooked, particularly within marginalized communities. Through their work, they aim to spark reflection, empathy, and dialogue about identity, migration, and cultural preservation, while also reclaiming space for the voices of their elders and their heritage.

Futsum Tsegai is a filmmaker whose work delves into themes of memory, identity, and cultural inheritance through a blend of poetic, immersive storytelling. Futsum’s practice is rooted in personal exploration and the reconnection to their Eritrean heritage. Their work often blends documentary and experimental techniques, capturing intimate narratives that highlight the complexities of cultural identity and belonging. Growing up in the Eritrean diaspora, Futsum has long navigated the complexities of living between two worlds, and their work reflects a deep engagement with the nuances of displacement and the search for connection to one’s roots. Memhr , Futsum’s current project, is a deeply personal exploration of their familial legacy, intertwining themes of grief, love, and resilience as they reconnect with the cultural narratives of their ancestors. Futsum’s films strive to honor the stories of those who are often overlooked, particularly within marginalized communities. Through their work, they aim to spark reflection, empathy, and dialogue about identity, migration, and cultural preservation, while also reclaiming space for the voices of their elders and their heritage.