Gebrelwa Worku Ethiopia, b. 1999
Biography
Gebrelwa Worku is a contemporary Ethiopian visual artist based in Addis Ababa. She earned her BA in Fine Arts with a focus on interdisciplinary visual arts from the Addis Ababa University, Alle School of Fine Arts and Design, in 2023. She also holds a diploma in Graphic Design from Entoto Polytechnic College. Currently, Gebrelwa is a full-time studio artist, dedicated to her evolving and experimental creative practice.
Gebrelwa’s work passionately explores the intersections of painting, printmaking, and quilt art, blending traditional techniques with contemporary narratives. Her art is characterized by a dynamic interplay of textures, patterns, and colors, reflecting her fascination with the inherent tension between materiality and meaning. Through her practice, she critiques society's fixation on clothing and fabrics as superficial markers of value, using these elements as symbols to uncover deeper truths about identity, human dignity, and cultural expression.
Her work celebrates the richness of tradition while embracing the spirit of innovation, presenting layered compositions that are both visually striking and conceptually profound. Gebrelwa weaves together personal and collective stories, inviting viewers to reflect on the complex interplay between appearance and essence. By incorporating intricate textures and thoughtful narratives, she seeks to evoke emotion, challenge conventional perceptions, and foster meaningful connections between art and audience.
Inspired by Ethiopia's cultural heritage and contemporary challenges, Gebrelwa’s art becomes a platform for dialogue on identity, societal values, and the human condition. Her ability to merge storytelling with visual exploration makes her a dynamic and rising voice in Ethiopia’s contemporary art scene.
Art Fairs
