Shimon Wanda is a multidisciplinary contemporary artist, painter, and sculptor based in Haifa’s Kiryat Haim neighborhood.

Although born in Israel, his artistic identity is deeply influenced by the history and culture of the Ethiopian Jewish community, which continues to serve as a central source of inspiration in his work. Wanda moves fluidly between large-scale murals, intimate portraits, and symbolic sculptural pieces, combining spray paint, acrylics, and a wide range of materials in his creative process.

His work is characterized by vibrant neon color palettes, abstract shapes, and a visual language in constant motion. In recent years, he has focused especially on expressive portraiture—breaking facial structures into emotional and intuitive forms. His art explores themes of identity, roots, culture, and memory, creating a visual experience meant to unsettle, provoke, and captivate the viewer.

“My choice to express emotion through the portrait creates a moment of freeze,” he says. “But at the same time, I want the viewer to feel confused and excited.”

Wanda maintains a disciplined physical training routine centered on upper-body strength and hand movement, preserving the flexibility and precision essential to both painting and sculpture. For him, the body is an extension of the artistic toolset, and the ability to keep moving, flowing, and creating is inseparable from his practice.