Ezekiel Abassa is a Florida-based self-taught artist specializing in hard and soft pastels. Grounded in the biological concept of umwelt—the idea that every being experiences the world through its own sensory lens—his work explores the intersection of perception, memory, and transformation. Growing up in Ethiopia and later immersing himself in the diverse landscapes of Florida, he developed a deep curiosity about how different environments and cultures shape the way people experience the world. This curiosity drives his desire to capture and share his unique perspective through art. Pastels became his medium of choice while learning color theory, offering a natural transition from charcoal and a tactile way to express his evolving view of the world.

Music plays a central role in shaping these visions. Lyrics often spark ideas that guide his compositions, adding a narrative layer to his work. Sometimes the connection is clear, other times it takes unexpected forms—reflecting how sound and imagery intertwine in the artist’s mind. This blending of sensory experiences extends to his love of nature, where the landscapes of Gainesville, Florida, and daily encounters with wildlife—especially frogs—symbolize themes of transformation and growth that echo through his pieces.