Aicha Abouhaj’s ‘Hikayat’: A Celebration of Qatar-Morocco Heritage Through Art
Aicha Abouhaj’s artwork “Hikayat” highlights the cultural ties between Qatar and Morocco and underscores the significance of preserving heritage through art. The painting combines Qatari Sadu weaving and Moroccan Amazigh tattoo traditions, portraying women’s life stories. Abouhaj advocates for maintaining these artistic practices and promotes cultural collaboration through her projects.
Moroccan artist Aicha Abouhaj recently unveiled her latest artwork, “Hikayat,” in Doha, Qatar, reflecting the cultural ties between Qatar and Morocco. This acrylic painting, measuring 100×80 cm, serves as a homage to the narratives shared by women through artistic traditions. Abouhaj emphasizes the crucial need to preserve these cultural heritages, highlighting their significance in contemporary society.
Abouhaj stated that “Hikayat” melds the endangered traditions of Qatari Sadu weaving and Moroccan Amazigh tattoos. These practices, handed down through generations from mother to daughter, face the threat of extinction. Each symbol depicted in her work encapsulates personal stories from women’s lives, illustrating their joys and struggles while recognizing the ancient Moroccan storytelling tradition.
The artist noted that the designs of Sadu weaving and Amazigh tattoos are vital expressions of identity and resilience. By intertwining these elements within her painting, Abouhaj honors the legacy of women from both cultures. She conveyed that these symbols transcend mere decorative aesthetics and encapsulate rich stories and emotions passed through generations.
Abouhaj performed a live demonstration of “Hikayat” during the inauguration of Gallery Five Home at Giardino Mall in The Pearl. This project is part of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, where she engaged in collaborative efforts with Qatari artist Mubarak Al Thani. Together, they participated in the Cubist Landscape project, highlighting cultural fusion through mural installations.
In her collaboration, Abouhaj expressed the essence of unity and learning among artists from both nations. “The project was all about collaboration,” she remarked, emphasizing the organic and meaningful integration of their shared traditions. Through her artistic endeavors, Abouhaj advocates for the preservation of the cultural heritages of both Morocco and Qatar, evidencing that heritage actively shapes the future.
Aicha Abouhaj’s artwork “Hikayat” celebrates the deep-rooted cultural connections between Qatar and Morocco, emphasizing the importance of preserving artistic traditions. Through her paintings and collaborative projects, she highlights women’s narratives and the significance of cultural heritage. Abouhaj’s work serves as a reminder that these traditions are integral to personal identity and continue to influence contemporary society.
Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com
