Artist Meron Engida paints beguiling images of endearing figures huddled together. Influenced by her Ethiopian roots, her paintings draw the viewer into her world, begging to know more about the stories behind them. Gallery Girl spoke to Meron about her inspirations and plans for the future.

What are your main inspirations? 

I’m inspired by strength, value of human diversity, compassion, mutual support, reggae music, the beauty of cultural identity, women’s connection, memory, my imagination and nature.

What are you working on at the moment?

At the moment I’m working on a series about solidarity and a group of strong women living in a vibrant world.

Who are the figures in your artworks?

 The figures in my paintings are not real people they are from my imagination.

Are there any artists who influence your work?

Growing up I was surrounded by  the ancient art of Ethiopian Orthodox Church which influences my work.

Is your art received differently in Ethiopia than it is in the US?

Through out my art life my style changed following my heart. I paint from traditional to contemporary art in Ethiopia. When I came to the US I felt more appreciated and people understood my art better.

What are your plans for the future?

I have a lot of exiting ides to paint for the future, I’m going to continue painting following my heart.