The “What’s Out Art Sale Event,” now in its 19th year, is set to dazzle art enthusiasts at the Hilton Addis this weekend. This esteemed gathering will feature more than 200 gifted local artists, each presenting their unique and original creations, promising an extraordinary celebration of creativity, talent, and innovation.

Art lovers will be treated to a diverse range of artworks that highlight the rich artistic culture of the region. The event will include paintings, sculptures, photography, installations, and more, each piece reflecting the vibrant and dynamic nature of contemporary art.

The “What’s Out Art Sale Event” not only offers a platform for seasoned artists but also serves as a springboard for emerging talents, providing them with an invaluable opportunity to showcase their work to a broader audience, including collectors and galleries.

Beyond the visual feast, the event will foster a space for dialogue and engagement, with several artists available to discuss their work, inspirations, and the challenges they face in the ever-evolving art world. These interactions aim to bridge the gap between artists and the community, enhancing the appreciation of art and its vital role in society.

As the “What’s Out Art Sale Event” celebrates nearly two decades of promoting art and culture, it continues to attract a growing number of visitors each year, establishing itself as a must-visit event for anyone interested in the arts.

The event is open to the public, and art lovers are encouraged to come and experience the creativity and diversity of the local art scene.

Muluken Melesse, a celebrated figure in Ethiopian music, has died at the age of 70. His death was confirmed by his family on April 9, 2024. Muluken, known for his soulful voice and impactful songs such as “Menew Kerefede,” “Yeregeme Lebe,” and “Nanu Nanu Ney,” left a lasting mark on the Ethiopian music scene.

Born in 1954 in Gojjam, a former province in northern Ethiopia, Muluken moved to Addis Ababa at the age of six. His musical journey began in 1966 when, at just 12 years old, he started performing in nightclubs. By 1972, he had recorded his first vinyl track, “Hedetch Alu,” a collaboration with notable musicians including pianist Girma Bèyènè and saxophonist Tesfa Mariam Kidane.

In the mid-1970s, Muluken’s career continued to flourish with hits like “Wetetie Mare” and “Ete Endenesh Gedawo,” recorded with the Equator Band. Despite the band’s subsequent move to the United States, Muluken chose to remain in Ethiopia and in the 1980s, transitioned from his music career to devote himself to the Pentecostal Church.

Throughout the 1970s and early 1980s, while Muluken became known for his singing, he was notably absent from recordings by the official state television, setting him apart from many contemporaries. His spiritual conversion marked a significant shift in his life, aligning himself with the Ethiopian Evangelical movement and becoming a born-again Christian.

Muluken’s refusal to return to secular music remained consistent until his later years, despite numerous appeals from his fans. He occasionally appeared in interviews, using them as opportunities to correct misconceptions and affirm his religious commitments.

Married and settled in the Washington D.C. area, Muluken continued to minister globally, impacting many through his faith and music. Even in his musical arrangements, he was known for personalizing lyrics, working closely with songwriters to reflect his unique style.

Muluken Melesse’s death marks the end of an era for Ethiopian music, but his contributions will continue to influence and inspire. His family and fans mourn a life that, while marked by dramatic changes, remained dedicated to affecting positive change in every community he touched.