Sofonyas Agegnehu (b. 2000, Dessie City) is an Ethiopian sculptor based in Addis Ababa. He holds a BFA from the Alle School of Fine Arts and Design at Addis Ababa University (2025). Primarily working in portraiture, Sofonyas explores expressive facial features and high-contrast colors to evoke emotion. His creative process draws inspiration from public spaces, blending observation with personal reflection to craft portraits that forge a deep connection with viewers. His work has been exhibited in group shows, including Harmonious Palette at Aurora Co-Working Space.
My artistic journey focuses on expressing human emotions through sculpture. The different emotions on faces always fascinate me. I get most of my creative ideas from the people around me and from myself. I see that there are emotions and energies that are often reflected in my paintings. My creative process begins with sketches. These designs gradually reveal recurring emotions and similar characteristics. I then add my thoughts to these designs and transform them into three-dimensional shapes.
These sculptures are made to express depth of emotion, and sometimes they reflect aspects of me. Rather than trying to imitate reality, I use a descriptive and sketch-like style. I try to create rhythm, balance, and contrast using color contrasts. Gypsum is my preferred material because it is readily available and easy to use. Each sculpture creates a sense of dialogue by making eye contact with the viewer. The viewer's emotional response is personal, based on their own memories and experiences. Through my art, I want to convey a range of emotions, from joy to contemplation.