Alemayehu Regasa

Artist Statement

um: Painting
My artistic practice is a dedicated exploration of "Childhood," a theme that serves not merely as a subject, but as the very foundation of my creative freedom, inspiration, and energy. In a world often structured by logic and limitation, I choose to paint from the perspective of childlike wonder—an untamed, instinctual realm where the past and present merge. My work is a conscious return to innocence, aiming to capture the unfiltered joy, curiosity, and raw emotion that define our earliest memories.
For me, the act of painting is not a structured labor; it is a profound, joyful play. When I approach the canvas, I feel like a child holding a beloved piece of paper, completely enamored with the possibilities of color and form. It is a sensory experience akin to running through a field or playing with friends, where the process matters far more than the final outcome. This playful approach allows me to experiment fearlessly with texture, vibrant palettes, and bold shapes, giving me the creative liberty to reinterpret memories through a nostalgic, yet deeply personal, lens.
Doing painting is a channel that connects me directly to the very origin of myself. I begin within the conscious awareness of artistic elements—balancing composition, color, and line—but the goal is to transcend technicality. The process quickly transitions from deliberate thought to a "no-mind" state, a meditative space where the conscious mind steps aside, allowing the subconscious to guide the brush. In this state, I often lose all track of time, entering another dimension where the only reality is the interaction between the brush, paint, and the surface.
My paintings often feature figures immersed in play, simplified forms, and whimsical scenarios that celebrate the uninhibited imagination. I want the viewer to look at my work and feel that immediate, visceral pull back to a time when life was simple and vibrant. By blending this, I aim to evoke the nostalgia of lost moments, while celebrating the enduring, joyful spirit of the child that lives within u