Situated on the highest elevated area of the city of Addis Abeba is mount Entoto, a historical place on the outskirts of the city, characterized by its serene atmosphere. The view of the capital from this place, is nothing short of a giant piece of impressionism, which constantly changes its color composition (depending on the light and presence of fog), is simply breath taking! This is the place abstract expressionist Eyasu Tilayeneh, chose for his studio location. The notion of working here can also be interpreted as a statement of wanting to seek freedom from the hustle and bustle of city life. Away from the loud noise and constant distraction of the city below and to be able to fully engage in his creation of wondrous pieces of art.
The colors he uses and the strokes of his brushes have lives of their own. And just like life, they seem to resonate in and throughout the entirety of the canvas, often probing into the balance between order and chaos. And at times they seem to delegitimize boundaries, as if to state that everything compliments everything.
Abstract expressionists are noted for their spontaneity. Even though they could sometimes work from their sketches, they too are governed by it. There is nothing more beautiful in any aspect than that which is done with finesse in such a manner; transposing what the mind sees simultaneously on to a canvas and beholding it as it takes a life of its own, must truly be a thing of marvel. Hence, it’s no wonder Eyasu chose to work high in the mountain. With uninterrupted focus, he is able to create enchanting works of art.
I had the honor of gaining a private tour of his studio, an experience I won’t forget. After I finished looking at the paintings that he was showing me one by one, we sat down and conversed about his paintings and his journey to reach where he is now. Though it was natural to ask an up-and-coming artist where he sees himself in five or ten years, I held the question back. That was because somewhere in my mind I realized something or maybe it was obvious: he doesn’t need five years.
