This artwork explores the theme of isolation and disconnection. The figure sitting with one hand extended symbolizes people living far from their loved ones and colleagues. Although we can still engage in activities, such as playing games, the absen
This artwork explores the theme of isolation and disconnection. The figure sitting with one hand extended symbolizes people living far from their loved ones and colleagues. Although we can still engage in activities, such as playing games, the absen
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African immigrants wear fur jackets in Western settings, yet beneath the surface, they struggle. United as friends, they face the harsh realities of displacement, separated from family. Their somber expressions betray the emotional toll. A nearby spi
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Nebay Abraha

Nebay Abraha, born in Eritrea in 1996, is a self-taught artist whose journey began at a young age with two exhibitions in Asmara alongside his peers. These early shows marked the beginning of his artistic career, helping him gain recognition for his portrait and figurative work, as well as his vibrant collage art. In 2018, Nebay moved to Addis Ababa, a transition that proved to be a creative turning point. By 2019, he held a notable exhibition themed "Ethio-Eritrea" at the Fendika Cultural Centre in collaboration with an Ethiopian artist.

In 2020, Nebay moved to South Sudan, where his career continued to flourish. He hosted multiple solo and group exhibitions, including shows at the American Embassy in South Sudan in 2021 and 2022. In 2021, he also participated in an exhibition at the United Nations in South Sudan, showcasing pieces that explored the lives of immigrants and displaced people worldwide. That same year, he exhibited in Nairobi, further expanding his international reach.

In 2023, Nebay exhibited his work themed Living Loving Lounging at Rangi Gallery in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. As both an artist and an immigrant, Nebay channels the experiences of young immigrants into his art, reflecting emotions such as loneliness, depression, and anxiety, often stemming from the loss of family and the challenges of integrating into new communities. His work also conveys moments of joy, love, and unity, offering a balanced depiction of immigrant life.

Nebay's current artistic focus is on themes of isolation, sadness, and sorrow, telling the stories of young immigrants through his unique use of newspapers and recycled materials. His art often features striking figures, created to communicate powerful messages about the human condition and the immigrant experience.

Education:

  • 2014-2017 – Certificate, Fine Art Course, Satreb Art Institute, Asmara, Eritrea

Selected Solo Shows:

  • 2022 – Stolen Thought at Boa Bob House – Juba, South Sudan

  • 2021 – The Web at Boa Bob House – Juba, South Sudan

Selected Group Shows:

  • 2023 – Untitled at Umoja Art Gallery – Kampala, Uganda

  • 2022 – Untitled at American Embassy – Juba, South Sudan

  • 2022 – Untitled at UN House – Juba, South Sudan

  • 2021 – Untitled at UN House – Juba, South Sudan

  • 2021 – Untitled at American Embassy – Juba, South Sudan

  • 2021 – Untitled at Baobab House – Juba, South Sudan

  • 2021 – Untitled at Circle Art Gallery – Nairobi, Kenya

  • 2020 – Untitled at Sun Hotel – Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

  • 2019 – Meskel at Capital Hotel – Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

  • 2019 – Ethio-Eritrea at Fendika Cultural Centre Gallery – Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

  • 2017 – Untitled at Casa degli Italian – Asmara, Eritrea

  • 2023 – Origin International Art Symposium