Robel Solomon Teweldemedhin

Robel Solomon Teweldemedhin, born in 1991, is a talented Eritrean artist whose passion for art was nurtured from an early age. Growing up in the studios of his uncles, renowned Eritrean artists Brhane and Michael Adonai, Robel was introduced to the fundamentals of drawing and painting. This early exposure fueled his artistic journey, inspiring him to develop a bold and expressive style. As he matured, Robel explored diverse techniques and styles from various artistic eras, enriching his unique voice as an artist.

After over a decade of working in realism and figurative painting, Robel began to delve into sociopolitical themes, drawing inspiration from neo-expressionist influences. His works reflect profound personal and social commentary, often addressing the complex realities of his experiences. These powerful pieces have earned him international recognition, with his art being showcased at prestigious biennials and exhibitions across the globe. His paintings have been displayed in China, Ecuador, Eritrea, New York, Poland, and beyond, cementing his status as a rising voice in contemporary art. 

EXHIBITIONS

(Group)

* 2004-2011 , National Eritrean Festival, Asmara, Eritrea

*2007, "YOUTH DREAM ", at casa degli Italian, Asmara, Eritrea

*2012, " 12 YOUNG CONTEMPORARY ERITREAN ARTISTS ", at  The Gallery, Asmara, Eritrea

*2014 , " UNTITLED " at the gallery,  Asmara Eritrea.

*2017, 7th BEIJING INTERNATIONAL ART BIENNIALE, Beijing, China.

* 2018, 2nd INTERNATIONAL WORLD SUMMIT,  Ecuador.

*2019, NTD 5th INTERNATIONAL FIGURE PAINTING COMPETITION,  New York, USA.

*2022, 9th BEIJING INTERNATIONAL ART BIENNIALE,  Beijing, China.

*2022  9th SOCIO-POLITICAL POSTER BIENNIALE, Auschwitz, Poland.

(Solo)

*2009, " UNDER A GREEN NIGHT" at Alliance Frances, Asmara, Eritrea

*2011, "NOISY SILENCE " at Alliance Frances, Asmara, Eritrea.

*2013, "BLURED EMOTIONS " At The Gallery, Asmara, Eritrea.

*2018 " DIVIDED SELF ONE AND TWO" At The Gallery, Asmara, Eritrea.

AWARDS

*2007 - 2021 Won several local Art competitions.

*2019 "HIDEOUT ", Honorable Mention, NTD 5th Internatinal Figure Painting Competition, New York,USA.

COLLECTIONS

*2017, "HONEYMOONERS" , Donated to National Museum of China

In His Own Words:

Throughout my painting process, the most vital aspect is freedom. I am drawn to the unpredictability of each outcome, as it mirrors the essence of life itself. Each work unfolds like a journey through an uncharted realm, where the uncertainty of direction is the most exhilarating part. This freedom allows my instincts and emotions to guide every stroke.

The conceptualization and symbolism may arise during the initial sketches or develop mid-process. Regardless of when it occurs, my goal is always to imbue the work with deeper meaning. The choice of colors is intentional, meticulously adjusted to convey the emotions and messages I wish to express. Abstraction plays a key role in inviting emotional interpretation over literal representation.

Acrylic’s fast-drying nature is instrumental in my process, enabling me to manipulate the medium to reflect the immediacy of emotion. The initial layer serves as a loose visual foundation—a meditative phase—where brushstrokes, charcoal lines, and hues set the tone. Abstract elements emerge, introducing a chaotic yet deliberate atmosphere, where control is both lost and regained. Rough strokes, drips, and scratches add depth, evoking layers of history and memory, much like scars etched into both body and psyche.

Each figure or element is rendered with great care, emphasizing their emotional weight. Bold, scratched, or painted text becomes a key element, echoing trauma and weaving phrases into the visual narrative as a form of reflection. My approach blends emotional intensity with symbolic representation, creating a space where chaos and meaning coexist.