Artist Haftegenet Alemayehu

Oil painting on Canvas

65 × 60 cm

Mulugeta’s Story

“My name is Mulugeta Yemane. I'm from Adi Adebay but now reside in the Mekelle Health IDP Center. I go to Atse Yohannes School and I am in the 6th grade. My favorite sport is football, and my favorite color is blue.”

Art Statement

This painting reflects the child’s dreams and aspirations, symbolized through the use of yellow in the background. The yellow color, the child’s favorite, serves as a beacon of hope and positivity, representing their bright future. Surrounding the figure, this color hints at the child’s next dream: to become a researcher or scientist, a vision full of curiosity and potential. The child’s expression, a smile full of joy, conveys the deep emotion and satisfaction that comes from achieving something they’ve long desired or worked towards. This expression captures the pure happiness and pride felt when a plan or dream is realized. Through these elements, the artwork speaks to the resilience of the child and the unwavering hope that even in difficult circumstances, their dreams can come true.

Artist Biography

Haftegenet Alemayehu was born and raised in Mekelle, Tigray, in 1988 EC. Despite facing academic challenges, he pursued a diploma in drafting and later studied at the Art School of Tigray, graduating with honors. His education was interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Tigray, but he continued to develop his artistic skills, using art as a form of resistance. Haftegenet has participated in numerous exhibitions and competitions, winning awards for his work focused on themes of displacement, gender-based violence, and peacebuilding. Additionally, he is passionate about photography and cinematography, capturing the stories of his people through his lens. His art honors their sacrifices and hopes for a better future.