Addis Fine Art, a contemporary art gallery dedicated to incubating emerging talent, facilitating critical engagement and encouraging the growth and development of the art scene on the continent has kicked off the new year by presenting the first European solo exhibition of Ethiopian artist Dawit Adnew. The exhibition titled “Woven Moments” marks the gallery’s first show of 2023 at their London gallery.
Dawit Adnew is an Addis Ababa based artist who is known for his captivating paintings that portrays languid figures posing in beautiful rich gardens teeming with lush plants, succulent fruits, and vibrant flowers. In this series, he creates captivating paintings that transport the observer to a lush and dreamy realm. Adnew’s works are similar in style to that of Matisse and Gauguin, exuding an air of continuous tranquility very reminiscent of twilight where color and pattern serve as pure sources of pleasure. Dawit’s artistic practice is deeply influenced by his studies in African masks and iconography. His use of patterns and fabric is rooted in his background as a textile designer which he brings to his paintings, creating a unique visual language.
Adnew holds a diploma in graphics from the Alle School of Fine Arts and Design. Throughout his artistic career, he has participated in more than 30 group exhibitions and various solo exhibitions in Ethiopia, Uganda and Malta and he will be represented by Addis Fine Art gallery at the 1:54 Contemporary African Art Fair in London later this year. It is of notable mention that his current exhibition at Addis Fine Art’s London gallery provides a rare opportunity for European audiences to experience the vibrant and enchanting world that he has created. For art enthusiasts seeking a fresh perspective on contemporary African art, this show is a must-see. This exhibition is a testament to the gallery’s dedication to promoting African artists and their works.