Tiemar Tegene

b. 1985, Ethiopia

Tiemar Tegene is a dynamic artist whose creative journey is deeply rooted in the world of printmaking. Having earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in printmaking from the Allé School of Fine Arts & Design in Addis Ababa, Tegene has ventured beyond traditional techniques, particularly exploring the realm of mono printing. Her artistic process involves pushing the boundaries of etching practices, often employing spontaneous experiments with found household items and their textures.

What sets Tegene apart is her refusal to adhere to conventional norms in printmaking. She eschews the idea of numbered editions, opting instead to create each piece as a unique work of art. Tegene employs a fascinating interplay of ink application onto the page, utilizing various textures to imprint images in a way that defies fixed descriptions. Colored pencil additions follow, introducing repeating icons and patterns that simultaneously abstract the artwork and enrich the personal narratives associated with each subject.

At the heart of Tegene's art is a profound exploration of human connections—both the inherent boundaries within individuals and the constructed barriers people impose on themselves. Drawing inspiration from her own emotional experiences and relationships, Tegene transforms these insights into deeply personal responses to the world. Her portraiture captures specific emotional moments, drawing on details from intimate conversations, public exchanges, song lyrics, or fictional narratives. The result is a collection of prints that speak to the intricate tapestry of human relations, blending "real" details with imaginative flourishes.

Tegene's work has garnered recognition and has been exhibited in prestigious venues such as the National Museum of Ethiopia, Alliance Ethio-Française, Modern Art Museum Gebre Kristos Desta Centre, and the Lithuanian National Museum of Art. Additionally, her art extends to the public domain through a series of commissioned murals in the city of Addis Ababa.

In collaboration with Medium Tings, a roving gallery and project space for art and dialogue founded by Stephanie Baptist, Tiemar Tegene continues to weave a rich narrative through her expressive and emotionally charged works, offering viewers a glimpse into the unexplainable strength and vibrant power that unites her diverse and compelling creations.