Engdaye Lemma’s first solo exhibition, titled “Floating Souls,” will be showcased at Addis Fine Art London from January 18 to February 17, 2024.
Born in 1980, Lemma’s innovative approach to print-making amalgamates screen-printing, painting, and collage techniques. His artistic exploration delves into the intricate connections between life and culture, critically examining the fabric of society. Drawing inspiration from ethnography, Engdaye utilizes art as a powerful tool to bridge the gap between knowledge and lived experiences.
Residing and working in the vibrant city of Addis Ababa, Engdaye finds profound fascination in the pulsating rhythms of urban life. He frequently contemplates the intersections of public and private spaces within urban environments.
The visual richness of his creations vividly captures the chaotic essence of city life – the swift transformations, constant motion, blurred distinctions between individuality and collectivity, the rhythmic cacophony, and the continual generation of residual artefacts. As Lemma navigates through life, meaning, and existence, his artworks serve as a reflection on society and humanity.
Engdaye Lemma’s roots trace back to Desse City, Ethiopia, where he was both born and raised. His passion for visual art blossomed at the Alle School of Fine Arts and Design. There he earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts as part of the school’s inaugural print-making cohort.
Currently, Lemma imparts his knowledge at the School of Fine Arts and collaborates with several influential figures who once inspired him, including Zerihun Yetmgeta, Getachew Yoseph, Agegehu Adane, and Berhanu Ashagre.
Engdaye Lemma’s artistic journey encapsulates a profound exploration of societal textures and the intricate interplay between art, life, and culture.
