Rabat – The Abla Ababou Gallery in Rabat is hosting the “Resonance of Memory” exhibition featuring the distinctive works of Mohammed El Mourid, from Wednesday, November 22, 2023, until January 11, 2024.
This exhibition provides an unparalleled opportunity for art enthusiasts and connoisseurs to immerse themselves in the distinctive narrative crafted by El Mourid’s masterful interpretation of memory and history.
El Mourid’s innovative project offers a fresh perspective on Moroccan history. Drawing a parallel between animal skin and Proust’s madeleine, El Mourid employs this artisanal material to evoke memories. The analog photographs imprinted on goat skins echo the kingdom’s past, encapsulating timeless scenes frozen in history.
Kingdom of Morocco – Silver Print on Goat Skin – 58×48 cm – 2020
Employing the roles of both historian and alchemist, El Mourid delves into Moroccan archives, preserving vintage stamps from the French and Spanish protectorates. These enthralling scenes from a past era are encapsulated on tanned skins, meticulously stretched over frames or drums, undergoing a metamorphosis into enigmatic, weathered parchments through expert craftsmanship.
In his recent artistic work, the artist unveils a series of portraits that depict Alaouite monarchs and Moroccan Jews. These portraits serve as a powerful testament to a historical era when the harmonious coexistence of various communities defined the diversity and cultural richness of Morocco.
The artist’s keen attention to detail brings to life the individuals from this bygone time, offering viewers a vivid glimpse into the shared heritage and pluralistic tapestry that characterized Moroccan society during this period.
Jewish Woman in Morocco – Silver Print on Goat Skin – 2020
El Mourid’s persistent exploration of materials and techniques becomes apparent as he endeavors to discover his distinctive artistic language. At the core of his creative process, nearly bordering on obsession, is the imperative to encapsulate memories while remaining mindful of his personal history.
In pursuit of this objective, he fearlessly integrates himself into the narrative, leaving indelible imprints of his body on photographic paper. This daring approach not only underscores his commitment to the preservation of memory but also accentuates the deeply personal and immersive nature of his artistic expression.
