Wendwesen Kebede Abera, born in 1983 in Dukem, Ethiopia, is a multifaceted artist and historian whose work bridges the worlds of visual art and historical scholarship. His early education at Dejazmach Fiqre Mariyam Elementary School and Lielt Tenagneworke Secondary
School laid the groundwork for a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and creativity. Wendwesen’s academic journey led him to Addis Ababa University, where he earned a BA degree in Applied History in 2004/5, followed by a BA degree in Painting from the School of Fine Arts and Design in 2005/6.

Wendwesen’s dual focus on history and art has profoundly influenced his work, allowing him to explore the rich cultural and historical narratives of Ethiopia through his paintings. His academic achievements were further enhanced when he completed an MA degree in History and Cultural Heritage Management from Addis Ababa University in 2011, with a thesis focused on contemporary Ethiopian art history and artists from the 1920s to the 1990s. This scholarly background informs Wendwesen’s art, which often reflects themes of cultural heritage, identity, and historical memory.

After graduating, Wendwesen embarked on a career that combined his artistic and historical expertise. He worked in various capacities, including as an educator, journalist, and designer, contributing to the Ethiopian cultural landscape in multiple ways. Wendwesen’s work as a cartoonist and layout designer for newspapers like Helina, the Addis Ababa University student newspaper, and the Ethiopian Volunteer Media Professionals Against AIDS (EVMPA) demonstrated his commitment to using art as a tool for social change. His storytelling abilities were also showcased in his radio narrations and his work as a reporter, where he won essay competitions for his insightful analyses.

Wendwesen’s art has been exhibited widely, both in Ethiopia and internationally. His one-man shows at the Ethiopian National Theater in 2008 and 2009 were particularly significant, as they allowed him to present his work to a broader audience. These exhibitions, along with his participation in group shows at venues like the Russian Culture for Science (PUSHKIN) and the National Museum, solidified his reputation as a leading figure in Ethiopian contemporary art. Wendwesen’s international exhibitions, including those in South Korea, Ecuador, Egypt, and France, further expanded his influence and brought Ethiopian art to a global stage.

In his role as Secretary General of the All Ethiopians Visual Artists Association, Wendwesen has been instrumental in advocating for the recognition and support of Ethiopian artists. He has organized and participated in numerous projects and exhibitions, including initiatives focused on pressing global issues such as hydro-politics and climate change. Wendwesen’s work on these projects reflects his deep concern for the future of Ethiopia and the world, and his desire to use art as a means of raising awareness and inspiring action.

Wendwesen Kebede’s contributions to the fields of art and history are vast and varied. His work is a testament to the power of art to tell stories, preserve culture, and inspire change. Through his paintings, writings, and leadership, Wendwesen continues to be a vital voice in the Ethiopian art community, influencing both his peers and the next generation of artists.