ARTISTS

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Etiye Dimma Poulsen

Etiye Dimma Poulsen

Painter and sculptor

Born in Ethiopia in 1968 and raised in Denmark, sculptor Etiyé Dimma Poulsen, sculptures transcend cultural and geographical boundaries, offering a profound exploration of the human condition. Her art resonates with themes of beauty, vulnerability, and authenticity, making her a leading figure in the global contemporary art scene.

The Creative Process

Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s sculptures are a blend of tradition and innovation, crafted with meticulous care. Using metal wire to shape the framework of her figures, she sculpts fine clay over them, allowing her process to remain fluid and open to change. Each piece undergoes a transformative journey in the kiln, where fire introduces cracks, textures, and imperfections that reflect life’s fragility and raw beauty.

“For me, firing is a magical moment—a fusion of earth and fire,” Etiyé shares. “These new creatures emerge from the ashes, embodying a materialized ecstasy. It’s not just about creating; it’s about discovering.”

Her art bridges the ancient and the modern, drawing inspiration from the rich traditions of African art, while incorporating elements of ancient Greek, prehistoric, and Eastern aesthetics. This unique blend positions her work as a reinvention of archetypes—totems that connect past and present in a seamless dialogue.

Themes and Influence

Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work focuses on the primal aspects of human existence.
“I strive to shape figures in their most naked, primal state, symbolizing solitude, fear, desire, and belonging,” she explains. “Each sculpture is a trace of human culture, a reflection of our shared existence on earth.”

Her creations often form communities—a gathering of totems that resemble a forest. This collective presence speaks to the interconnectedness of humanity, a theme central to African contemporary art and to Etiyé’s personal philosophy.

The Essence of African Contemporary Art

While deeply rooted in her Ethiopian heritage, Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work transcends traditional definitions of “African art.” Her sculptures evoke the essence of African contemporary art, blending cultural memory, modern craftsmanship, and universal themes. They celebrate the beauty, dignity, and vulnerability of the human form, offering viewers a profound connection to their own humanity.

“I want my art to capture the ephemeral joy of living,” Etiyé says. “Even though joy is transient, art has the power to make it endure forever.”

Discover Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s World

Immerse yourself in the evocative sculptures of Etiyé Dimma Poulsen, where earth and fire converge to create timeless expressions of life. Her art reflects the vibrancy of African contemporary art while inviting viewers into a shared exploration of human culture and emotion.

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COLLECTIONS & MUSEUMS

  • Smithsonian, Washington (Musée le plus prestigieux au monde pour l’art africain)
  • New Walk museum, UK
  • Herbert Johnson Museum, NY
  • Musée de Sèvres
  • World bank Collection
  • Fondation Jean-Paul Blachère
  • Musée Théodore Deck Guebwiller
  • Hood Museum Hanover New Hampshire
  • Hans Bogatzke Collection of Contemporary African Art Germany

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Discover MORE artworks BY THE ARTIST
Bronze sculpture by Ethiopian artist Etiye Dimma Poulsen. Etiyé Dimma Poulsen (born 1968) is an Ethiopian-born Danish sculptor, known for her work in ceramics. Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s sculptures are a blend of tradition and innovation, crafted with meticulous care. “For me, firing is a magical moment—a fusion of earth and fire,” Etiyé shares. “These new creatures emerge from the ashes, embodying a materialized ecstasy. It’s not just about creating; it’s about discovering.” Her art bridges the ancient and the modern, drawing inspiration from the rich traditions of African art, while incorporating elements of ancient Greek, prehistoric, and Eastern aesthetics. This unique blend positions her work as a reinvention of archetypes—totems that connect past and present in a seamless dialogue. Etiye Dimma Poulsen I Woman Bronze
Totems made of an ancient wooden bike from the Kivu region by Ethiopian artist Etiye Dimma Poulsen. Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work focuses on the primal aspects of human existence. “I strive to shape figures in their most naked, primal state, symbolizing solitude, fear, desire, and belonging,” she explains. “Each sculpture is a trace of human culture, a reflection of our shared existence on earth.” Her creations often form communities—a gathering of totems that resemble a forest. This collective presence speaks to the interconnectedness of humanity, a theme central to African contemporary art and to Etiyé’s personal philosophy. While deeply rooted in her Ethiopian heritage, Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work transcends traditional definitions of “African art.” Her sculptures evoke the essence of African contemporary art, blending cultural memory, modern craftsmanship, and universal themes. They celebrate the beauty, dignity, and vulnerability of the human form, offering viewers a profound connection to their own humanity. “I want my art to capture the ephemeral joy of living,” Etiyé says. “Even though joy is transient, art has the power to make it endure forever.”Etiye Dimma Poulsen I Totems
Composition made of gold leaves on wood by Ethiopian artist Etiye Dimma Poulsen. The artist represented a kid in an abstract landscape. Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work focuses on the primal aspects of human existence. “I strive to shape figures in their most naked, primal state, symbolizing solitude, fear, desire, and belonging,” she explains. “Each sculpture is a trace of human culture, a reflection of our shared existence on earth.” Her creations often form communities—a gathering of totems that resemble a forest. This collective presence speaks to the interconnectedness of humanity, a theme central to African contemporary art and to Etiyé’s personal philosophy.Etiye Dimma Poulsen I The Kid
Etiye Dimma Poulsen’s artwork is a vivid reflection of her diverse and rich background. Born in Ethiopia, educated in Denmark, and shaped by experiences across Africa (Tanzania, Kenya), her works are steeped in the warmth, colors, and wonder of her childhood. These pieces invite the viewer into a world where memory, culture, and emotions intersect, creating a bridge between her Ethiopian origins and her current life in Belgium. Her paintings are not merely aesthetic; they are an invitation to understand her personal journey. Through warm, earthy tones, cracked earth motifs, and lines that evoke traditional African fabrics and body markings, Poulsen celebrates the first dazzling moments of her life. Each brushstroke holds a deeper meaning, suggesting that beneath the canvas, or even the skin, there lies a thought in motion—a dialogue between the past and present, the physical and the mental.Etiye Dimma Poulsen I Reflets
Abstract composition made of gold leaves on wood by Ethiopian artist Etiye Dimma Poulsen. While deeply rooted in her Ethiopian heritage, Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work transcends traditional definitions of “African art.” Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work focuses on the primal aspects of human existence. “I strive to shape figures in their most naked, primal state, symbolizing solitude, fear, desire, and belonging,” she explains. “Each sculpture is a trace of human culture, a reflection of our shared existence on earth.” Her creations often form communities—a gathering of totems that resemble a forest. This collective presence speaks to the interconnectedness of humanity, a theme central to African contemporary art and to Etiyé’s personal philosophy. Her sculptures evoke the essence of African contemporary art, blending cultural memory, modern craftsmanship, and universal themes. They celebrate the beauty, dignity, and vulnerability of the human form, offering viewers a profound connection to their own humanity. “I want my art to capture the ephemeral joy of living,” Etiyé says. “Even though joy is transient, art has the power to make it endure forever.”Etiye Dimma Poulsen I Gold panel
Etiye Dimma Poulsen’s artwork is a vivid reflection of her diverse and rich background. Born in Ethiopia, educated in Denmark, and shaped by experiences across Africa (Tanzania, Kenya), her works are steeped in the warmth, colors, and wonder of her childhood. These pieces invite the viewer into a world where memory, culture, and emotions intersect, creating a bridge between her Ethiopian origins and her current life in Belgium. Her paintings are not merely aesthetic; they are an invitation to understand her personal journey. Through warm, earthy tones, cracked earth motifs, and lines that evoke traditional African fabrics and body markings, Poulsen celebrates the first dazzling moments of her life. Each brushstroke holds a deeper meaning, suggesting that beneath the canvas, or even the skin, there lies a thought in motion—a dialogue between the past and present, the physical and the mental.Etiye Dimma Poulsen I Landscape 2024
Sculpture made of argile and pigments by Ethiopian artist Etiye Dimma Poulsen. Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work focuses on the primal aspects of human existence. Each sculpture is a trace of human culture, a reflection of our shared existence on earth. Her creations often form communities—a gathering of totems that resemble a forest. This collective presence speaks to the interconnectedness of humanity, a theme central to African contemporary art and to Etiyé’s personal philosophy. Etiye Dimma Poulsen I Woman
Sculpture made of argile and gold leaves by Ethiopian artist Etiye Dimma Poulsen. The artist represented a couple face to face. Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work focuses on the primal aspects of human existence. Each sculpture is a trace of human culture, a reflection of our shared existence on earth. Her creations often form communities—a gathering of totems that resemble a forest. This collective presence speaks to the interconnectedness of humanity, a theme central to African contemporary art and to Etiyé’s personal philosophy. Etiye Dimma Poulsen I Le Couple
Sculpture made of argile and pigments by Ethiopian artist Etiye Dimma Poulsen. Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work focuses on the primal aspects of human existence. Each sculpture is a trace of human culture, a reflection of our shared existence on earth. Her creations often form communities—a gathering of totems that resemble a forest. This collective presence speaks to the interconnectedness of humanity, a theme central to African contemporary art and to Etiyé’s personal philosophy. Etiye Dimma Poulsen I Man small
Sculpture made of argile and pigments by Ethiopian artist Etiye Dimma Poulsen. Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work focuses on the primal aspects of human existence. Each sculpture is a trace of human culture, a reflection of our shared existence on earth. Her creations often form communities—a gathering of totems that resemble a forest. This collective presence speaks to the interconnectedness of humanity, a theme central to African contemporary art and to Etiyé’s personal philosophy. Etiye Dimma Poulsen I Brotherhood
Sculpture made of argile and pigments by Ethiopian artist Etiye Dimma Poulsen. Part of the serie Les trois grâces. Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work focuses on the primal aspects of human existence. Each sculpture is a trace of human culture, a reflection of our shared existence on earth. Her creations often form communities—a gathering of totems that resemble a forest. This collective presence speaks to the interconnectedness of humanity, a theme central to African contemporary art and to Etiyé’s personal philosophy. Etiye Dimma Poulsen I Les trois grâces I La raison
Sculpture made of argile and pigments by Ethiopian artist Etiye Dimma Poulsen. Part of the serie Les trois grâces. Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work focuses on the primal aspects of human existence. Each sculpture is a trace of human culture, a reflection of our shared existence on earth. Her creations often form communities—a gathering of totems that resemble a forest. This collective presence speaks to the interconnectedness of humanity, a theme central to African contemporary art and to Etiyé’s personal philosophy. Etiye Dimma Poulsen I Les trois grâces I La Sagesse
Sculpture made of argile and pigments by Ethiopian artist Etiye Dimma Poulsen. Part of the serie Les trois grâces. Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work focuses on the primal aspects of human existence. Each sculpture is a trace of human culture, a reflection of our shared existence on earth. Her creations often form communities—a gathering of totems that resemble a forest. This collective presence speaks to the interconnectedness of humanity, a theme central to African contemporary art and to Etiyé’s personal philosophy. Etiye Dimma Poulsen I Les trois grâces I La Jeunesse
Sculpture made of argile and pigments by Ethiopian artist Etiye Dimma Poulsen. Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work focuses on the primal aspects of human existence. Each sculpture is a trace of human culture, a reflection of our shared existence on earth. Her creations often form communities—a gathering of totems that resemble a forest. This collective presence speaks to the interconnectedness of humanity, a theme central to African contemporary art and to Etiyé’s personal philosophy. Etiye Dimma Poulsen I Le villageois
Sculptures made of argile and pigments by Ethiopian artist Etiye Dimma Poulsen. The artist represented five towers inspired by shapes of religious architectures. Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work focuses on the primal aspects of human existence. Each sculpture is a trace of human culture, a reflection of our shared existence on earth. Her creations often form communities—a gathering of totems that resemble a forest. This collective presence speaks to the interconnectedness of humanity, a theme central to African contemporary art and to Etiyé’s personal philosophy. Etiye Dimma Poulsen I Towers
Sculpture made of argile and pigments by Ethiopian artist Etiye Dimma Poulsen. Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work focuses on the primal aspects of human existence. Each sculpture is a trace of human culture, a reflection of our shared existence on earth. Her creations often form communities—a gathering of totems that resemble a forest. This collective presence speaks to the interconnectedness of humanity, a theme central to African contemporary art and to Etiyé’s personal philosophy. Etiye Dimma Poulsen I Homme Small
Sculpture made of argile and pigments by Ethiopian artist Etiye Dimma Poulsen. Part of the serie Les trois grâces. Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work focuses on the primal aspects of human existence. Each sculpture is a trace of human culture, a reflection of our shared existence on earth. Her creations often form communities—a gathering of totems that resemble a forest. This collective presence speaks to the interconnectedness of humanity, a theme central to African contemporary art and to Etiyé’s personal philosophy. Etiye Dimma Poulsen I Les trois grâces
Sculpture made of argile and pigments by Ethiopian artist Etiye Dimma Poulsen. Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work focuses on the primal aspects of human existence. Each sculpture is a trace of human culture, a reflection of our shared existence on earth. Her creations often form communities—a gathering of totems that resemble a forest. This collective presence speaks to the interconnectedness of humanity, a theme central to African contemporary art and to Etiyé’s personal philosophy. Etiye Dimma Poulsen I Woman with curves
Mural sculpture made of argile and pigments by Ethiopian artist Etiye Dimma Poulsen. Etiyé Dimma Poulsen’s work focuses on the primal aspects of human existence. Each sculpture is a trace of human culture, a reflection of our shared existence on earth. Her creations often form communities—a gathering of totems that resemble a forest. This collective presence speaks to the interconnectedness of humanity, a theme central to African contemporary art and to Etiyé’s personal philosophy. Etiye Dimma Poulsen I Mural

About THE GALLERY

Located in a private residence near Brussels, Alexia Werrie art gallery features a curated selection of contemporary art, antiques, and vintage furniture inside a unique private setting giving art lovers and collectors the opportunity to better imagine the artworks inside their interiors.

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ART PROJECTS

Discover more artists

Charlotte Vindevoghel
Karen Swami
Anne De Mol
Etiye Dimma Poulsen
Christian Nesler
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Julie Bergeron
Manuel Esnoz
Delphine Brabant
Delphine Ricour
Rene Galassi
Jean Boghossian
Liliane Demeester
Lorene Cavagna
Helene Dawans

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