Tigist H Balke
Member
Painting, Graphics, Web Design
About the Artist
Tigist H. Balke is an artist, web developer, and graphic designer whose work bridges fine art, design, and technology. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design from Addis Ababa University School of Fine Arts and a Master of Science in Database Systems Technology from the University of Maryland Global Campus.
As a DAAD Scholarship recipient, Tigist pursued advanced studies at the Academy of Fine Arts in Munich (Akademie der Bildenden Künste München), where she refined her artistic practice and explored both traditional and contemporary techniques, deepening her understanding of visual storytelling and design innovation.
Professionally, she works as a Web Designer/Developer, combining creativity, design sensibility, and technical expertise to produce effective digital solutions. Her professional work reflects the same attention to detail, balance, and innovation that characterizes her art.
Guided by faith, Tigist believes that true peace comes from God, inspiring her creative practice and approach to life. She encourages the next generation to recognize and cultivate their gifts, approach the world with curiosity, and use art to connect people across cultures.
Artist Statement
Tigist H Balke
"Art is my language; it speaks for my silence."
I grew up in Ethiopia and have lived in the United States for many years. Art speaks the same language to me wherever I go, allowing me to express my inner world and share the experiences I encounter every day.
I primarily work in black and white, using contrast, texture, and monoprint techniques to transform inner tension into visual stories that reveal both fragility and strength. My work turns pain and hardship into experiences we can all relate to, inviting viewers to feel, reflect, and connect.
Through my artwork, I explore the challenges and frustrations of today’s world. I focus on the delicate balance between hope and despair, silence and protest, fragility and resilience. Each piece invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences and connect with universal human emotions.
For me, art is more than expression; it is a universal language. It is fully capable of carrying ideas and emotions across borders, acting as a crucial tool for empathy and connection in a world that never stops changing.