Kicking off Museums Victoria’s Culture Makers program is a new exhibition by Melbourne-based rising star, Ethiopian-Norwegian artist Olana Janfa. Presented at the Immigration Museum from 21 April- 24 August, Janfa’s exhibition What is your Gov’ment Name reflects on the artist’s migrant experience across a series of works that showcase his trademark colour, humour and engaging social commentary.
A self-taught artist who speaks five languages, Addis Ababa-born Janfa has overcome multiple barriers on his journey – emigrating from Ethiopia to Norway as a teenager, then settling in Melbourne in 2015.
A prolific painter whose practise now extends to book illustration, fashion collaborations and large-scale mural projects, Janfa typically works with acrylic, oil and pastels on a mix of recycled timber and found materials.
He first picked up a brush in 2018, initially to recreate the traditional Ethiopian Orthodox church art he remembered from his childhood, and has since gone on to exhibit his works widely and partner with local and international brands and organisations including Nike, Pan Macmillan, Obus, Nicholas Daley, NGV, Melbourne Fashion Week and The Social Studio. He also regularly teaches art to school children from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
For more information visit https://museumsvictoria.com.au/immigrationmuseum/whats-on/what-is-your-govment-name/
