Kelemua H. Desta
Member
Painting
About the Artist
Kelemua H. Desta, a dedicated studio artist, was born and raised in Ethiopia, where her passion for art began early. As a child, she would spend hours studying pictures in books, accurately copying them on paper. This early fascination with visual expression sparked a lifelong journey into the world of art. Over time, her interest evolved into a deep commitment to exploring various artistic mediums and crafts.
Determined to refine her skills, Kelemua set her sights on the University of Addis Ababa Fine Arts and Design School, Ethiopia’s only formal art institution during her time. Despite facing significant challenges, her perseverance paid off, and after four years of demanding study, she graduated with a solid foundation in fine arts. She established herself as a studio artist, producing and selling numerous works while finding fulfillment in teaching art. She shared her expertise with young students at two elementary schools in Ethiopia, nurturing the next generation of artists.
Both individual and collective achievements have marked Kelemua’s artistic journey. She has held three solo exhibitions and participated in numerous domestic and international group art shows. Her work has garnered widespread recognition, with select paintings featured in a 2000 Red Cross publication and included in Revue Noire, a distinguished art collection. Through her dedication and talent, Kelemua continues to contribute meaningfully to the art world, showcasing Ethiopia’s rich artistic heritage on a global stage. Today, she resides in Maryland, United States of America.
Artist Statement
Kelemua H. Desta
Interpret, reflect, and connect with their own emotions and experiences. To me, art is not just about creating something beautiful but about storytelling, evoking emotions, and igniting conversations. My creative process often begins with a moment, an encounter, a memory, or an idea that lingers in my thoughts. These moments evolve into visual narratives shaped by color, texture, and form.
I draw inspiration from my cultural heritage, personal experiences, and world. My artistic practice is deeply rooted in the idea that every piece carries a story, a fragment of lived reality that can transcend time and space. I explore identity, belonging, and transformation themes, allowing my work to bridge the past and present. I seek to capture the intangible, fleeting emotions, dreams, and reflections that define human existence through layers of paint, mixed media, or digital compositions.
In my art, I embrace both structure and spontaneity. While some pieces follow a deliberate, methodical process, others emerge organically, guided by intuition and emotion. This balance between intention and discovery fuels my creativity and keeps my work dynamic.
Ultimately, my goal is to create art that resonates with people on a personal level, inviting them into a shared space of imagination and meaning. I believe art can inspire, heal, and connect us, and I strive to make each piece a visual dialogue that encourages exploration, introspection, and wonder.
Engage with the emotions, stories, and meanings that once resided only in my mind.