In celebration of the 100th anniversary of
Franz Kafka's death, the Goethe-Institut Ethiopia, in collaboration with the embassies of Austria, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland, has organised "Kafka Year 2024." A highlight of this year-long engagement with the literary legacy of the author was a series of workshops on illustration and comics held from April to May 2024 in Addis Abeba.
Under the guidance of renowned comic biographer Nikolas Mahler, young artists were encouraged to explore Kafka’s complex worlds and interpret them in their own creative ways. The hybrid format of the workshops not only facilitated the development of technical skills but also created a space for the exchange of ideas and perspectives, inspiring participants to discover their own voices.
The results of this creative endeavor are captured in a vibrant publication featuring a collection of illustrations and comics inspired by Kafka's short stories. Each piece reflects the individual interpretations of the artists and breathes new life into Kafka's timeless narratives. For these young talents, this publication represents a significant milestone, documenting their commitment and creativity while encouraging them to transform complex topics into visual forms.
We invite you to explore the publication and accompanying exhibition starting December 12, 2024. These will showcase the fruits of the creative process and serve not only as a tribute to Kafka's artistic heritage but also as a bridge connecting diverse cultures through art.