Filmawi Efrem is a London-based filmmaker and photographer, originally from Eritrea. His work seamlessly weaves poetry, magical realism, and intimacy, creating deeply human narratives. His journey into visual storytelling began with disposable cameras gifted by his mother—a spark that grew into a career marked by collaborations with brands such as Adidas, Maison Margiela, Dr Martens, Comme des Garçons, and Burberry.
A former Art Director at AMV BBDO, Filmawi chose to work on the agency side to further develop his craft for brands. During his time there, he led photography and video campaigns for major brands, refining his ability to merge strong visual storytelling with brand identity.
To know his work is to step into atmospheric worlds where the line between fiction and reality blurs. Filmawi creates imagery that feels both cinematic and painterly, inviting viewers into spaces that are as intimate as they are expansive. His storytelling is rooted in emotional truth, exploring the complexities of identity, memory, and human connection.
Whether on set or sketching ideas in cafés, Filmawi centres human connection and emotional depth in every project. His recent series of 100 portraits for Gaffer magazine celebrates cultural diversity and innovation, solidifying his voice as a vital force in contemporary visual art.