Kia Degefa was born in Shashemene, Ethiopia, and is a self-taught artist whose natural talent has been evident from an early age. Now 36 years old, he works as a full-time studio artist and currently resides in Addis Ababa.
Kia’s artistic style is deeply rooted in the history, beliefs, and visual traditions of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. His work often features priests and the spiritual environments they inhabit, capturing the rituals, architecture, and atmosphere that define church life. Having grown up near a church and actively participating in religious activities throughout his youth, Kia draws inspiration from personal experience and a deep spiritual connection.
For him, the church has always been more than a place of worship—it has served as a wellspring of artistic and cultural influence. Through his paintings, Kia reflects the sacred heritage of Ethiopian Orthodoxy, preserving and reinterpreting its symbols and stories for contemporary audiences.
