What Is Your Gov’ment Name is a playful but poignant exhibition of large-scale artworks by Melbourne-based Ethiopian-Norwegian artist Olana Janfa.
The first creative output from our Culture Makers initiative, Janfa’s exhibition reflects on the artist’s migrant experience across a series of works that showcase his trademark use of colour, humour, and engaging social commentary.
A self-taught artist who speaks five languages, Addis Ababa-born Janfa has overcome multiple barriers on his journey – emigrating from Ethiopia to Norway as a teenager, then settling in Melbourne in 2015.
A prolific painter whose practise now extends to book illustration, fashion collaborations and large-scale mural projects, Janfa typically works with acrylic, oil and pastels on a mix of recycled timber and found materials.