Yohannes Tesfaye

Born in Addis Ababa , Ethiopia in 1978, Yohannes is a multidisciplinary artist whose work bridges traditional and contemporary artistic expressions. A graduate of the Alle School of Fine Arts and Design at Addis Ababa University, he earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 2001. Following his studies in Ethiopia, he pursued further training at the prestigious Surikov Art Institute in Moscow, deepening his technical expertise and artistic vision.
Upon returning from Russia, Tesfaye became a workshop instructor at Addis Ababa University, sharing his knowledge with the next generation of artists. His professional experience spans a wide range of creative disciplines, from illustrating children’s books for Macmillan Publishers to undertaking the meticulous restoration of historic wall frescoes at Addis Ababa’s Holy Trinity Cathedral.
Before relocating to the United States in 2005, Tesfaye was an active presence in Ethiopia’s art scene, regularly participating in both regional and international exhibitions. Since settling in the U.S., he has continued to exhibit his work across the country, maintaining a strong artistic practice that engages with diverse audiences.
Tesfaye’s work explores the interplay between two-dimensional and three-dimensional forms, employing acrylic, oil on canvas, wood, fiberglass, and various mixed media. His art reflects a dynamic synthesis of cultural heritage and contemporary expression, investigating themes of identity, memory, and transformation. With an ever-evolving approach, Tesfaye remains a compelling figure in the global art landscape, continuously pushing the boundaries of material and form.
Source
https://www.yohannesart.com/