About Haile

Background

Hailegebrel Nigussie, or Haile for short, was born in 1990 in Debre Zeyit, Ethiopia. From an early age, he felt a deep connection to colors, forms, and the stories they hold. What began as a quiet passion gradually developed into a powerful calling.

After taking courses at art schools and universities, Haile decided to dedicate his life to painting. In his studio, he explores themes that are both personal and universal: identity, nature, history, and social connection.

His works have been featured in numerous solo and group exhibitions in Ethiopia, showcasing a unique visual language that blends emotional expressiveness, cultural memory, and intuitive depth.

For Haile, art is more than a profession—it is a form of reflection, a connection, and a way to bring meaningful beauty into the world.

Current Situation

Haile lives with his wife and two children in Ethiopia – a country marked in recent years by political instability, economic hardship, and, at times, violent conflict.

Many organizations, professionals, and art enthusiasts have left the country. Opportunities for artists to earn a stable income locally have drastically decreased.

By purchasing a painting, you not only support an independent artist and his family – you also enrich your own life with authentic art full of depth, emotion, and cultural power.

Exhibitions

Throughout his career, Haile has presented his art at various exhibitions and art events and has received recognition for his distinctive perspective and contribution to the art world.

• 2008: Lifestyles of the People ; Exhibition at the Tomi International Hotel, Addis Ababa

• 2010: Ancient African History ; solo exhibition at the Hiwot Cultural Center, Addis Ababa

• 2012: Group exhibition at the Ethiopian National Theatre, Addis Ababa

• 2014: Solo exhibition at Babogaya Resort

• 2014: Exhibition at Axum University on the ancient history of Axum and Queen Sheba, Axum

• 2017: Group exhibition at the Mosaic Hotel with mixed media photography and painting, Addis Ababa

• 2017: ASHENDA ; Solo exhibition at Ambiance Restaurant and Guest House, Addis Ababa

• 2018: HARLA ; solo exhibition at the Alliance Etho Francaise, Dire Dawa

• 2020: FACES ; Group exhibition at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Addis Ababa

• 2022: Emotional Sweat of Painting ; Solo exhibition at Galleria Tomoca, Addis Ababa

• 2022: Ethiopian Mosaic ; group exhibition at the Ethiopian Metropolitan Gallery, Addis Ababa

• 2024: The Light Path ; Solo exhibition at the Addis Ababa Museum, Addis Ababa

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Interview, Tomoca Gallery (February 2023)

The Light Path - Behind the Scenes

From the Bazaar to the Online Shop

Matthias Klarl, co-founder of Haile Art, on the friendship and collaboration with the
artist Haile:

When I first arrived in Ethiopia in 2017, I met Haile at a cultural bazaar in Addis Ababa. Among all the stands, his paintings immediately caught my eye: modern, expressive, and full of energy - so different from all the other paintings on display. From our very first conversation, a lasting connection began to grow.

I was especially drawn to his “Flowers” collection. Haile told me that he once worked as an electrical engineer for the irrigation system of a flower plantation. Every day he was surrounded by blossoms and vibrant colors - impressions that found their way into this series.

He compared the view of the flowers from above to a planetary system, even to the Big Bang itself: bursting with energy, power, and breathtaking beauty. That same radiance is still present in his paintings today.

Out of our friendship grew the idea to share Haile’s art with a wider audience. This is
how Haile Art was born: an online gallery bringing his remarkable paintings from Addis Ababa to the world. We hope they will inspire you too, filling your home with peace, positive energy, and creativity.

Still, nothing compares to experiencing the originals in person. If you are interested
in a personal viewing in Munich, we warmly invite you to get in touch.

Your Haile Art Team