Getachew Taye
Member
Painting
About the Artist
Getachew Taye was born and raised in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. His passion for art led him to the Addis Ababa Fine Arts School, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Design. After graduation, he worked as a designer for the Ethiopian Air Force, contributing his artistic talents to various projects.
During his occupation at the Ethiopian Air Force, Getachew was awarded a prestigious scholarship to study in the Former Soviet Union. He pursued his graduate studies at the Ukrainian Academy of Fine Arts in Kyiv, where he specialized in printmaking and earned a Master’s degree. His time in Kyiv allowed him to refine his artistic techniques and deepen his understanding of printmaking as a medium.
After completing his education, Getachew relocated to the United States and established his home in New York State. He continued his artistic journey in his new environment, dedicating himself to studio work and creative exploration. His art reflects a fusion of Ethiopian cultural heritage and global artistic influences, demonstrating his technical expertise and profound creative vision.
Today, Getachew remains an active and passionate studio artist, continually pushing the boundaries of his craft. He lives in New York with his beloved wife, Deborah, who has supported him throughout his artistic career. Through his work, Getachew continues to contribute to the art world, sharing his unique perspective and celebrating the rich traditions of Ethiopian art.
Artist Statement
Getachew Taye
Art has been my lifelong passion, rooted in my earliest childhood memories of painting flowers. Growing up in Ethiopia, I was immersed in the rich tradition of Enkutatash (New Year’s Day), where boys paint flowers and girls sing the beloved song Abebayehoy. This cultural celebration and encouragement from family and friends nurtured my artistic curiosity and deepened my love for creative expression.
I have always been drawn to discovering and collecting different materials and exploring various artistic techniques to keep my imagination alive. My creative process is fueled by an ever-evolving curiosity—each idea that emerges in my mind swings between past experiences and new inspirations. I strive to connect these oscillating thoughts, transforming them into vibrant visual narratives.
My work reflects my culture, emotions, and life's dynamic movement. I see art as a bridge between personal introspection and shared human experience. Every painting I create is infused with motion, capturing the fluidity of thoughts and memories. The colors, shapes, and textures I use embody the essence of nature, tradition, and the unseen energy that binds them together.
Ultimately, I aim to invite viewers into a world of imagination and cultural richness, where they can experience my interpretations of movement, heritage, and the beauty of the natural world. Through my art, I hope to spark curiosity, evoke emotions, and create a space for dialogue and connection.