Nigatu’s work explores the intersections of identity, memory, and humanity, often capturing figures caught in moments of emotional and existential tension. His pieces are not linear narratives but fragments of an evolving visual diary, emerging from a space of chaos moments of fear, safety, and belonging that define the human condition. These figures, sometimes obscured and anonymous, reflect his journey of understanding and processing humanity, shaped by his Ethiopian roots and his experiences living and working in Europe.

In most of Nigatu’s works, anonymity plays a central role. The figures are not confined to a single identity but embody a blend of characteristics from various backgrounds. This approach challenges assumptions about race and belonging while creating a shared, universal space for reflection. It mirrors his own navigation of multicultural experiences as an Ethiopian artist working between Addis Ababa and Germany.

Nigatu’s creative process is deeply improvisational, with painting and drawing merging in a fluid dialogue. His works capture the interplay of motion, stillness, and introspection, where intuition guides the composition and form. Objects and figures in his works take on reimagined forms, not bound by realism but imbued with emotional resonance and narrative significance.

Nigatu’s artistic journey began under the mentorship of Tesfaye Nigatu at Medhanialem Art Center in Addis Ababa. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Art Education from Addis Ababa University’s School of Fine Arts and Design in 2005 and served as an Assistant Lecturer until 2008. His career took a transformative turn when he received a DAAD scholarship, followed by the Camillo Michele Gloria sponsorship award for young artists. Later, he was awarded a KAAD scholarship to pursue advanced studies at the State Academy of Fine Arts in Stuttgart, where he earned a German diploma equivalent to a Master of Fine Arts (MFA), under the guidance of Prof. Cordula Güdemann.

Currently based between Addis Ababa and Germany, Nigatu continues to craft works that challenge, reflect, and celebrate the complexity of human experience. His practice invites viewers to engage deeply with the interplay of memory, identity, and belonging, creating a space for introspection and connection.