Currently, the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) is holding Ektashif: Morocco, an exhibition featuring stunning works by six Qatari creatives: Maryam Al-Mutaweh, Hamad Al-Mohammed, Dana Al Mulla, Fatima Al-Sharshani, Abdulhadi Al-Marri, and Aljazi Almaadeed. Following their visit to Marrakesh, organised by MIA and Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in April 2024, these artists and designers took cues from Morocco’s cultural heritage and Islamic architecture to create pieces that capture the country’s beauty. The exhibition will be open to the public until 26 February 2025.
During their trip, the creatives visited Marrakesh’s iconic historical landmarks, such as the Ben Youssef Madrassa, an architectural gem from the Marinid dynasty, and the ornate Bahia Palace. The trip also involved exploring the 16th-century Saadian Tombs, the Dar el-Bacha palace and museum in Marrakesh’s old city, and the famous lush Jardin Majorelle.
In addition, the creatives took part in workshops on traditional Moroccan arts, which included studying design and geometry inspired by Marrakesh’s monuments. They also practised biomorphic drawing, or arabesque, which features intricate plant and nature-inspired patterns; Zoua (wood painting); and zellij (Moroccan mosaic techniques, where each tile is carefully cut and arranged into elaborate designs).
The Ektashif: Morocco show displays 36 diverse works. Among the notable exhibits is fashion designer Maryam Al-Mutaweh‘s gown, which seamlessly blends Moroccan design with contemporary Qatari fashion. Inspired by Morocco’s exquisite tilework and architectural patterns, this piece reflects the country’s rich visual heritage. Jewellery designer Hamad Al-Mohammed has also drawn inspiration from Moroccan zellij and geometric motifs to produce his jewellery collection, capturing the intricate craftsmanship that defines Moroccan artistry.
Meanwhile, fashion designer Dana Al Mulla incorporates Moroccan motifs into her contemporary designs, demonstrating the timelessness and adaptability of Moroccan aesthetics.
Visitors can admire calligrapher Fatima Al-Sharshani‘s drawing and photographer Abdulhadi Al-Marri‘s pictures. Al Sharshani’s work merges traditional Arabic calligraphy with Moroccan colours and patterns, while Al Marri’s photographs document the vibrant souks, breathtaking architecture, and dynamic colours of Marrakesh, offering an immersive glimpse into Moroccan culture.
The exhibits also include a beautiful door by painter and ceramics artist Aljazi Almaadeed. Inspired by Zouaq, the work reflects the warmth and intricacy of Moroccan interior design.
To get more information about Ektashif: Morocco, please go to the official web page of the show.
Additionally, while at MIA, you might be interested in looking at the Varanasi-style necklace, the Damascus Room, and the Sitara of the Ka‘ba.
To stay updated with the latest art news, you can join our Telegram channel.
