In the Presence of Light: Melaku Ayele

We are pleased to announce Melaku Ayele's solo exhibition at Addis Fine Art Addis Ababa. The works in In the Presence of Light were produced in the past six years, inspired by Melaku's lived experiences and his perspective on modern society. Each piece is intentional and precise, drawing from the artist's extensive experience as a sculptor, graphic artist, and landscape designer. Melaku employs representative and metaphoric elements to convey his reflections on memory, love, and human nature. Initial sketches drawn on paper are carefully rendered on wood blocks with subtlety. The use of various materials including multicolored beads, nails, and bronze offers tactile and textural depth to these mixed media relief-like pieces.

Melaku was educated at Addis Ababa University Ale School of Fine Art and Design as well as the University of Fine and Applied Arts HfBK Dresden, East Germany with a specialization in sculpture. He later served as an instructor, Sculpture Department Head, and Director of the Ale School and Fine Art and Design. This exhibition marks his return as a full-time studio artist.