Circle – Humans / 'I Am Because We Are'
Girmachew Getnet presents large-format abstract paintings alongside his figurative works, united by blending colour. Rooted in the Ubuntu philosophy, 'Circle – Humans' is a vision of unity and equality: a 360-degree view of humanity in which everyone gathers as equals.
Participating Artists
Girmachew Getnet
“From both an artistic and a scientific perspective, all humans belong to a single species, Homo sapiens, and share almost the same DNA. Despite this common biological basis, people around the world live with many different languages, traditions and ways of life. I bring all of these together by blending colours.”
About the exhibition
In 'Circle – Humans', Girmachew Getnet moves between realism and abstraction, from concrete objects to pure form, and uses the blending of colour to unite the two. His large-format figurative works hang alongside his abstract pieces, setting two distinct art forms in conversation under one theme and showing the breadth of his artistic range.
'Circle – Humans', or 'Human – Circle', is an inclusive vision of unity, connectedness and equality among all people, regardless of skin colour, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation or background. The circle symbolises a gathering of equals, a safe space where everyone is invited to share their own experiences.
The circle offers a 360-degree view of humanity. Unlike linear arrangements such as classrooms or theatres, it removes hierarchy: everyone can see and hear each other, which fosters connection and authentic communication. Many interpretations of the circle describe a move away from divisive, patriarchal power structures toward a more egalitarian 'community of humanity'.
The exhibition's subtitle comes from Ubuntu, an African philosophy whose name translates roughly from Zulu as 'I am because we are': the idea that people find their identity and purpose in life through their connection with others.
Installation views
