Tizta Berhanu

This work has been kindly donated by the artist

London, Addis Fine Art, Synthesis of Souls, 27 April-27 May 2023

A figurative painter by training, artist Tizta Berhanu explores the intricate tapestry of human emotions through her art. Her canvases serve as introspective windows into a world where figures express a myriad of sentiments. Some find solace and connection, while others navigate solitude against enigmatic backdrops, all bathed in a rich palette of translucent colours created by bold, undefined brush strokes. Within Berhanu’s work, observers are welcomed into moments of vulnerability and intimacy as her subjects convey love, hate, sadness, and loneliness. The artist’s expressive swirling brushwork imbues her compositions with a dreamlike atmosphere, where figures emerge from a tide of vibrant and subdued hues. Only their lips, weighted eyelids, and outstretched hands remain distinctly defined against the luminous haze. Berhanu's entangled compositions subtly highlight the significance of community in providing support, reflecting on an essential aspect of Ethiopian culture. These works, reminiscent of memories that evolve and merge with time, capture the beauty of human touch. Through layers of thin paint washes, the artist preserves the emotions of her memories, offering viewers a timeless glimpse into the ever-shifting landscapes of the human heart.