

Martha Ketsela
Member
Painting
About the Artist
Martha Ketsela is a multi-talented Ethiopian artist whose creative expression spans
painting, poetry, music, and floral design. With a deep commitment to the arts as a
transformative force, she brings together diverse disciplines to create a unique and
resonant body of work. Her artistry reflects both her Ethiopian heritage and her extensive
international experiences, bridging cultures and traditions through innovative forms.
Artist Statement
Martha Ketsela

Martha holds a Master of Fine Arts degree from the City University of New York (CUNY), where she cultivated her academic and creative practice. She also pursued further studies at a university in Germany, expanding her artistic perspective and engaging with European art traditions. These experiences provided her with a dynamic foundation, enabling her to navigate multiple artistic languages while remaining deeply rooted in her Ethiopian identity.
As a visual artist, Martha has exhibited her works in prominent venues such as the Municipal Hall in Addis Ababa, the Hilton Hotel in Ethiopia, and at the International Graphic Show in Berlin, Germany. Her exhibitions reflect her versatility, ranging from expressive paintings to innovative mixed-media works that embody themes of culture, identity, and human connection. Her visual art often engages with symbolic forms and vibrant colors, creating dialogues that are both deeply personal and universally resonant.
Adding yet another dimension to her creative life, Martha is a skilled flower designer, bringing the delicacy and vibrancy of natural forms into her artistic universe. For her, floral design is not separate from fine art but rather a continuation of her philosophy of beauty, harmony, and expression.
Through her multifaceted practice, Martha Ketsela embodies the role of a modern Renaissance artist. She continues to inspire audiences both in Ethiopia and abroad, offering a rich legacy of creativity that crosses disciplines and unites cultures.