William Ropp – Ethiopia

From 22 August to 10 October 2015, the in focus gallery in Cologne presents the exhibition Ethiopia by internationally renowned photography artist William Ropp.

Ethiopia is the third solo exhibition the in focus gallery has dedicated to Ropp's work. The approximately 45 photographs on display are taken from Ropp's most recent series of the same title, first shown to an international audience in April 2015 as part of the AIPAD Photography Show in New York.

In this series, the photographer skillfully navigates the boundaries between naturalism and artifice, walking the tightrope between recording reality and creating stylised imagery. The gaze of his subjects – Ethiopian citizens of all generations – is usually directed straight into the camera, drawing the viewer with their extraordinary charisma.

The Ethiopians in Ropp's images appear vulnerable and introspective, at the same time exuding remarkable strength and self-confidence. Ropp captured his subjects embedded into alien landscapes and vegetation, resulting in enigmatic photographs full of mysterious meaning.


Further information at in focus