Experience Matters

Mekbib Wodajo Gebertsadik was born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, a city rich in cultural heritage and the home of the African Union’s headquarters. During his early childhood, his family moved to Dessie in the Wollo province, where he spent his formative years. From an early age, Mekbib displayed a remarkable passion for art, sketching, and painting as soon as he could hold a pencil. His mother, who recognized his natural gift, became his earliest supporter, supplying him with art materials and enrolling him in an after-school art center that nurtured his creativity throughout his elementary and high school years.

In 1990, Mekbib was admitted to the Addis Ababa Fine Art School, a dream his mother had long cherished for him. There, he refined his skills in painting, drawing, and visual composition under the mentorship of renowned Ethiopian artists. After five years of rigorous study, he graduated in 1994 with a degree in Painting. Following his graduation, he worked as a full-time studio artist, participating in numerous solo and group exhibitions throughout Ethiopia. His vibrant works captured the attention of diplomats, collectors, and art enthusiasts, leading to international sales that carried his art across continents.

In pursuit of new artistic and academic opportunities, Mekbib relocated to the United States in September 2001. The following year, he joined Gibbs College, earning an associate degree in Visual Communication with a focus on Graphic Design. His artistic growth continued when he enrolled at Howard University in 2007 to pursue a Master of Fine Arts degree. While studying, he organized art exhibitions and contributed to several public art projects across the Washington, D.C. area, strengthening his connection to the local and international art community.

Today, Mekbib serves as an adjunct professor in the Department of Theatrical Arts at Howard University, where he teaches scenic painting, basic drawing, and painting. Beyond academia, he is the founder and vice president of Artist’s Ashara, an organization dedicated to promoting Ethiopian art and cultural heritage globally. Residing in Virginia, Mekbib continues to paint and exhibit while cherishing his most crucial role, being a devoted father to his two daughters, Hosanna and Galilee.

Passionate about blending tradition with modern techniques.

Work and Education

Artist Mekbib Gebertsadik

ArtSpace

2015 - 2019

Curated exhibitions and developed interactive installations.

Freelance

Self-Employed

2019 - Present

Creating commissioned pieces and teaching art workshops.

What I Offer

From vibrant paintings to personalized tutorials, my services bring art to life.

Commissions

Custom artwork tailored to your vision, crafted with passion and detail.

Workshops

Interactive sessions guiding you through techniques and creative expression.

Step-by-step tutorials available online to inspire and develop your skills.

Store