Booth LM9
Nil Gallery is proud to present a curated group exhibition at 1-54 Marrakech, featuring the works of Sara Benabdallah (Morocco), Girma Berta (Ethiopia), Joel Bigaignon (Mauritius), and Abdallah El Hariri (Morocco). These artists, hailing from diverse backgrounds, explore themes of identity, culture, and form through their distinctive practices, creating a compelling dialogue between personal narratives and collective experiences.
Sara Benabdallah uses photography to shed light on the pivotal role of women in Moroccan society. Her images celebrate their essential contributions to cultural and historical heritage while challenging gender dynamics and the structures of collective memory.
Girma Berta captures the vibrant essence of urban Africa through his striking use of color and space. His work portrays everyday individuals—often engaged in labor or simple tasks—against the backdrop of cityscapes, revealing their resilience and vitality while reflecting the contrasts of modern African life.
Joel Bigaignon combines unconventional materials and techniques to create works that balance control and spontaneity. His collages, inspired by traditional house insulation methods in Mauritius, offer a connection to his heritage while innovatively exploring texture and form.
Abdallah El Hariri, a prominent figure from the École des Beaux-Arts de Casablanca and a pioneer of Moroccan modern art, draws on the geometric language of Islamic art in his practice. Using a blowtorch to burn surfaces like plastic and linoleum, he reveals earthy hues and mineral textures reminiscent of rocky landscapes, bridging tradition and contemporary abstraction.
Through their diverse perspectives and mediums, these artists present a rich tapestry of ideas that invite viewers to reflect on the interplay of inner worlds and external realities.
