Moroccan Musical Performance (2024) Gravures & estampes par Mehdi Ragani

In this piece, I wanted to capture the soul and vibrancy of a traditional Moroccan music performance. The scene is set against the backdrop of Chefchaouen, the Blue Pearl of Morocco, with its iconic blue door subtly anchoring the composition. The door’s rich, deep blue hue contrasts beautifully with the pure white garments of the musicians, symbolizing the harmony between tradition and culture.

The musicians, dressed in flowing white robes, are deeply engrossed in their craft. The oud player’s fingers glide gracefully over the strings, while the darbuka player keeps a rhythmic pulse that reverberates through the painting. The detailed brushstrokes aim to convey the textures of the instruments—the polished wood of the oud and the taut, hand-beaten surface of the darbuka—emphasizing their importance in Moroccan musical heritage.

Around the musicians, a small, appreciative audience is gathered, their faces illuminated by the warm glow of lanterns that add a festive touch to the setting. The atmosphere is both intimate and lively, capturing the communal joy that traditional music brings to Moroccan gatherings.

The blue door of Chefchaouen serves not just as a backdrop but as a symbol of the serenity and spiritual depth that the town is known for. It frames the scene, inviting the viewer to step into this moment of cultural celebration. The soft, flowing lines of the musicians' robes and the rhythmic patterns of the music they play are reflected in the surrounding environment, creating a sense of unity and flow throughout the piece.

In this piece, I wanted to convey the timeless connection between music, place, and people in Moroccan culture, bringing to life the rich auditory experience through the visual medium of canvas.

Thèmes connexes

MusiciansChefchaouenMoroccoColorful