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Art.See.Africa: Addis Ababa

September 28, 2024

In episode 3 of our series, we visit the vibrant capital of Ethiopia. Photographer Nafkot Gebeyehu guides us through Addis Ababa, where a new generation of artists explore tradition, innovation, and a lively nightlife.

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Photographer and Art See Africa host Nafkot Gebeyehu and painter Selome Muleta in her atelier in Addis Ababa
Nafkot Gebeyehu and painter Selome MuletaImage: DW

Ethiopia's political history is complex and multifaceted and has been shaped by monarchies and military dictatorships. The country has faced genocide, famine, and civil wars, all of which have left a lasting impact on its people and is often portrayed in the art of local artists. We take a tour through the lively creative scene in Addis Ababa. Photographer Nafkot Gebeyehu introduces us to some of the most talented artists in the city. We meet Selome Muleta, whose paintings vividly capture the female experience. Game designer and architect Bethlehem Anteneh shows us the dynamic, interactive world of game thinking. She is one of the creators of Enter Africa, an app that helps people collaborate across countries in Africa.

 

Photographer and Art See Africa host Nafkot Gebeyehu and Ethiopian scuptor Adiskidan Ambaye in her atelier in Addis Ababa
Nafkot Gebeyehu and Adiskidan AmbayeImage: DW

We explore an exciting sculpture garden with Tesfahun Kibru, and sculptor Adiskidan Ambaye shares her fascination with wood in her works. She is one of the few female sculptors in Ethiopia. Renowned painter Tadesse Mesfin shows us his latest works, inspired by the women in the markets of Addis.

 

Photographer and Art See Africa host Nafkot Gebeyehu and painter Tadesse Mesfin in his atelier in Addis Ababa
Nafkot Gebeyehu and painter Tadesse MesfinImage: DW

In a career spanning more than four decades, Tadesse Mesfin has constantly pushed the boundaries of his genre. We get a glimpse of Addis Ababa’s modern streets through the eyes of photographer Maheder Haileselassie. With over a decade of experience as a documentary photographer, she is showing the modern side of Addis Ababa, much like our own tour host photographer Nafkot Gebeyehu. Through photography, women can now express themselves in ways that previous generations could not.

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About the show

DW Arts Unveiled (Serienlogo Composite)

Arts Unveiled — Experiencing and understanding the art world

Arts Unveiled dives deep into the international creative scene, uncovering new ideas and explaining cultural phenomena that shape our history, present and future. Who are the artists? What are their greatest works of art? And how are they having an impact? Where can we find their exciting projects?