"I am drawn to abstract compositions because they require us to stop and
reflect, to ask questions. Abstract art is also open to multiple
interpretations. Each viewer will bring his or her own experiences into
play as they contemplate the work. This adds another dimension to the
artwork, a sort of interactive communication that flows from the artist,
to the painting and eventually the viewer," Gebreyesus says.
About her "Af.Rui.Ka" series, she states, "These paintings are a
celebration of my Africa - a visual narrative of my experiences in and
of Africa. Many of the paintings contain Fidel, the ancient writing
system from Eritrea and Ethiopia. Inspired by modern artists from the
Ethiopia and Eritrea, who have incorporated the alphabet in their work, I
interpret these symbols using my own visual language for the abstract
compositions. In addition to the Fidel, the paintings include some of
the symbols and textures inspired by African textures and themes."
Gebreyesus work has been featured in national and international exhibitions, but this is her first exhibit in the Richmond area.
