Rabat – The Hassan II Foundation for Moroccans Living Abroad is set to showcase “Ombres de Mon Passé” (Shadows of My Past), a compelling photography exhibition by Moroccan-American artist Noureddine El Warari, from September 12 to 29 in Rabat.
The opening reception will take place at 6:30 p.m. on September 12 at Espace Rivages, the Foundation’s headquarters.
El Warari, who has been residing in the United States since the 1080s, has established a distinguished career in both photography and printmaking.
After obtaining an applied science degree in photography from the University of Texas at Austin in 1985, he collaborated with major industry players such as Universal Studios and Warner Brothers at the CREART Photo Laboratory in Los Angeles.
From 1988 to 2003, his career thrived at Photo Impact creative lab, where he specialized in black-and-white printing. Now based in Santa Monica, California, El Warari integrates both traditional and digital techniques into his work.
“The use of black and white gives the image a soul,” he explains in an interview with E-taqafa. “It provokes a language or a conversation that touches the spirit. It’s a language simple yet complex.”
His latest exhibition in Casablanca showcases more than 40 years of black-and-white photography.
This collection is a heartfelt homage to his childhood neighborhood in Morocco, Derb Assaltane, and the women who resided there.
El Warari regards these women as his main source of inspiration, stating, “These Moroccan women represent my source of inspiration. Through my work, I try to preserve their courage and essence.”
The artist’s method for choosing subjects is intuitive. “I don’t know what I will photograph; it happens naturally day by day,” he said. “When an image reveals itself, it resonates with me, and I respond. This spontaneous interaction ensures the image remains authentic,” he added.
Reflecting on his craft, El Warari emphasizes the importance of “the gaze” in photography. “The gaze aligns with our consciousness. It captures moments that communicate without words or noise. Through the gaze, we connect with ourselves,” he remarked.
The exhibition represents a milestone for El Warari, who is grateful for the opportunity. “I am honored to be selected. I extend my thanks to everyone who has helped bring my work to Morocco.”
