Major Tibebe Terffa exhibition to open in Addis

A major new exhibition showcasing one of Ethiopia’s most exciting contemporary artists is to open at Lela Art Gallery, Addis Ababa on Saturday May 5th. Curated by Leo Lefort and supported by Castel Beer, the exhibition includes a collection of works by the prominent professional studio artist living and working in Addis Ababa.
Over the years, Tibebe has exhibited at various galleries and institutes in Addis Ababa, Dire Dawa and Harar. His work has also been exhibited internationally in Canada, Germany, Switzerland, Spain and the U.S.A. In Canada, he gained popularity during many residency programs he participated in at St Norbert’s Art Center in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

As well as painting, Tibebe likes to share his belief in spiritual growth, self-awakening and the development of self-confidence through art, according to a press release. He has participated in many public art projects, especially with children. Tibebe is also a keen gardener and enjoys the inspiration he gains from extensive travel.
His style is, in his own words, “a reflection of his inner personalities”. Tibebe was born in the walled city of Harar, Ethiopia in 1948. He considers that growing up in Harar’s characteristic atmosphere of tolerance and peaceful co-existence was a valuable formative experience.
Tewodros Tsegie Markos, a Paris-based Ethiopian artist, describes Tibebe as “one of the few uncontested contemporary artists of Ethiopia. “
“Active in the spreading of the discipline’s spiritual necessity to a wide range of his co-citizens, one can perceive him in the streets of the capital sharing his experience and experiments with young and old in an interminable selfless crusade,” Tewodros commented.
Tibebe Terffa, A Painter will be on show at the Lela Art Gallery, Armed forces Hospital area, from 5 May – 27th May 2012. Admission is free.