Biography of Eyayu Genet
Eyayu Genet, born in 1986 in Durbetee, Ethiopia, is a contemporary visual artist recognized for his innovative approach to painting, collage, and monumental installations. A graduate with distinction from ASFAD, Addis Ababa University (MFA, 2018), Eyayu’s works have been showcased in prominent international venues across the United States, Sweden, Switzerland, France, Ecuador, Uganda, Qatar, Paris, and Kenya. In Ethiopia, his art has been featured in esteemed platforms such as the National Museum, Alliance Ethio-Française, Goethe Institute, and Guramayne Art Center. His work is part of the Ethiopian National Museum’s permanent collection, while two notable pieces are housed in Kalmar Museum, Sweden. Additionally, he has presented at the University of Las Vegas, Nevada, delivering public lectures and a live show at the Barrick Museum.
Eyayu’s art draws heavily from indigenous African, particularly Ethiopian, traditions, merging cultural aesthetics with contemporary art narratives. His practice explores themes of contrast, such as tradition versus modernity and organic versus artificial, inviting reflection on the evolving African identity. By integrating the artistic practices of his birthplace into global art spaces, Eyayu creates a dynamic dialogue that resonates across cultures.
An advocate for the transformative power of art, Eyayu is dedicated to using his craft to address social challenges, promote environmental protection, foster diplomacy, and provide therapeutic interventions. His impact has earned him prestigious recognitions, including a lifetime achievement award from Ethiopia’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism in 2021 and the Tana Social Media Award for advancing messages of love and peace.
Eyayu’s participation in international art residencies and festivals highlights his global reach. He attended the Nagenda International Academy of Art and Design residency in Uganda (2019), the Qatar International Art Festival (2019), and the 5th Zervas UNESCO Achaia International Art Festival (2020).
Beyond his artistic career, Eyayu is committed to community-building and cultural development. He strives to establish Bahir Dar as a vital art hub in Ethiopia, complementing Addis Ababa. Currently, he serves as a lecturer at Bahir Dar University while operating his studio in the city, where he continues to inspire and mentor emerging artists.
