This mural is a conceptual artwork created using a combination of vector art and hand sketch techniques by the young Ethiopian mural artist Ermias Dinegde, based in Addis Ababa.
This art style and approach allows for clean structure while preserving an expressive, hand-drawn feel. By blending these techniques, the artwork moves beyond the limits of the real world and opens space for imagination, storytelling, and discovery. The style was intentionally chosen so the mural remains visually engaging over time—something guests can see every day without it ever feeling overwhelming or distracting. At the heart of the mural is a celebration of Ethiopian culture. The portrait of the young woman represents Ethiopia itself. Her features and skin tone reflect the natural diversity of Ethiopian people, allowing viewers from different backgrounds to immediately recognize her identity. Behind her is a world map, symbolizing Ethiopia’s connection to the global community. Floating above her hand is a coffee bean, portrayed in a magical way to honor Ethiopia as the birthplace of coffee and to represent the country’s gift of coffee to the world. A reflective light behind the coffee bean highlights its value and lasting impact.
On the left side of the mural, illustrated in a sketch style, is the story of Kaldi, the Ethiopian shepherd who discovered coffee after noticing his goats’ energetic behavior from eating coffee cherries. This scene is placed within the shape of the Ethiopian map, reinforcing Ethiopia as the origin of coffee and the owner of this story. Subtle reflective lines throughout the background are not meant to depict physical objects but instead symbolize revelation and blessing, acknowledging the belief that coffee was discovered through divine guidance. This mural was created so that every guest who walks into Kabod can leave with a lasting memory shaped through art. Through close collaboration Kabod Coffee, the artwork reflects both the space and its deeper cultural roots. The intention is for the mural to feel welcoming, meaningful, and unforgettable—much like the experience of sharing coffee itself.
Kabod Coffee is an American coffee brand that imports unblended Ethiopian Coffee to the USA; now with a flagship location in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia at the Grand National Palace. Our brand is rooted in Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee. We celebrate Ethiopian heritage by sourcing with intention and telling stories that connect origin, people, and craft. Every cup honors coffee’s journey from its ancestral roots. Our spaces are designed to feel warm, meaningful, and memorable—where art, history, and coffee meet. Kabod is more than coffee; it’s an experience grounded in origin and shared with the world.