Aïda Muluneh‘s photography encapsulates the intricate tapestry of postcolonial Africa. Against the backdrop of Addis Ababa, her stylized portraits, adorned in theatrical garments and face paint, bridge the realms of fact and fiction.
Born in 1974 in Addis Ababa, Aida Muluneh is an Ethiopian photographer who made an indelible mark on art. Her photography, a convergence of vivid imagination and profound observations, has traversed diverse platforms. With a degree in Film, Communication Department from Howard University, this former photojournalist tells the postcolonial stories from the Motherland.
After college, Aida Muluneh tailored her art to address political issues, producing a series like, Ethiopian Passages: Dialogues in The Diaspora at the National Museum of African Art, Smithsonian, 2003. With notable Ethiopian artists such as Julie Mehrtu, the exhibition was influenced by experiences of exile and constant motion. In addition, it challenged outdated notions of Africa as a confined realm and identity as unchanging and ancient, which was unheard of at that time. She continues to confront and showcases conflicts and history’s weight.
Most recently, her artworks graced bus shelters in New York, Chicago, and Abidjan through “Aïda Muluneh: This is where I am.” Her images aimed to confront the urging dialogue on Ethiopia’s conflicts, politics, and history. This large-scale installation, commissioned by Public Art Fund, merges her art with public spaces, making art accessible to all.”This is where I am,” draws its name from a poem by Ethiopian poet Tsegaye Gabre-Medhin. The poignant prose, written in 1974, resonates with Muluneh’s experiences and Ethiopia’s turbulent history.
Muluneh’s vivid canvases transcend mere aesthetics. She employs symbolism, hand-painted backdrops, and body paint to amplify her narratives. Her portfolio extends to raising awareness about water scarcity and the weaponization of hunger during conflict.
Her artistic journey is underscored by a dedication to engaging wider audiences. A World in Common exhibition, curated by the skilled Osei Bonsu, showcases her latest series, My Life Water. Collaborating with esteemed African artists, Muluneh delves into African historical concerns and prospects through photography.
Her artworks don’t just mirror reality; they challenge perceptions, foster conversations, and navigate complex emotions. Her images are enigmatic, offering nuanced perspectives rather than simplistic answers. In a world where silence often prevails, Muluneh’s art serves as a call to action. Through her vibrant canvases, she urges discussions on challenging topics, believing dialogue can drive change.
Be sure to check out the exhibition at Tate Modern, amongst other important projects the artist did.
