Dancing Under The Water is the first collaboration between Ethiopian-Norwegian artist and Australian design brand Dowel Jones. In this collection, eight pieces have been produced by Dowel Jones from factory timber offcuts creating new forms for Janfa’s expressive painting: outlines of coffee tables, stool legs, and chair components informed the assemblages offering a three-dimensional surface for Janfa’s art. 

Born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and emigrating to Norway as a teenager, Janfa visited Australia in 2015 and has lived in Melbourne ever since. Janfa uses his art practice as a means to connect to his culture, allowing him to communicate his ideas and experiences. Painting is how Janfa expresses his identity: the things he finds funny, and the subject matter that is important to him.

Founded by Adam Lynch and Dale Hardiman in 2014, Dowel Jones is an Australian design brand working with local manufacturers to create unique furniture, lighting, and accessories for interiors and homes around the world. 

Click here to download the exhibition catalogue

Dancing Under The Water launched at Melbourne Design Fair in May 2023.