Embracing Tradition: Abdelouadoud Menhir's Journey
In a world where many young individuals tend to drift away from traditional professions, Abdelouadoud Menhir stands out as a beacon of hope and dedication. A civil engineering graduate from Marrakech, this 25-year-old has taken a bold step towards reviving the age-old art of zellige, a traditional Moroccan tile art that holds significant historical and cultural value. His journey into this intricate craftsmanship began with a desire not only to work in this field but to immerse himself in an art form that embodies the essence of Moroccan identity. This endeavor reflects the need for a new generation of artisans who are passionate about preserving and innovating traditional crafts.
Redefining Craftsmanship through Education
Menhir's fascination with zellige blossomed as he enrolled in a specialized academy in Casablanca, where he dove deep into the nuances of this richly colorful and geometrically mesmerizing craft. He perceives zellige as more than just a manual craft; for him, it represents a profound personal journey. In an insightful discussion with Yabiladi, he shared that his commitment to this path emerged from an insatiable curiosity and a deep respect for the craft, despite having no prior connections to it. While some may view his choice as a step back from his academic achievements, his family has wholeheartedly supported him, embracing the belief that a trade, whether it brings wealth or not, offers a protective shield against adversity.
During his time in the workshops, Menhir faced a persistent stereotype: the notion that artisans lack education. He firmly believes this perspective is outdated and emphasizes the importance of combining craftsmanship with education. "The more educated an artisan is, the better equipped they are to innovate and infuse their unique touch into their work," he asserts, illustrating his view that knowledge and skill are intertwined.
Initially, some traditional artisans were skeptical of Menhir’s academic background and decision to pursue zellige. Over time, however, they began to appreciate the distinctiveness he brought to the craft, particularly in the details and innovative methods he introduced into traditional designs. This shift in perception has been gratifying for Menhir, who values collaborative learning and the sharing of knowledge over rivalry. He dismisses the idea that fellow artisans are competitors, emphasizing the importance of preserving and evolving their shared heritage.
The first piece he created, a zellige table, remains etched in his memory, serving as a reminder of the precision and patience that this art demands. The creation process involves meticulous steps, starting with kneading the clay, moving through painting and glazing, and finally working on the intricate designs before assembly. Each phase is essential and requires unwavering focus and skill.
As he engages daily with this art form, Menhir also champions the preservation of this ancestral craft. He acknowledges that the oldest zellige can be found in the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech, a city that deeply influences both his work and professional identity. His dedication to the craft was recently recognized when he secured third place in an international tile competition, highlighting his ability to innovate while respecting traditional values. However, he expresses concern over the future of his craft, noting that fewer young people are willing to learn it. He also points out the challenge posed by customers who, despite recognizing the effort and skill involved, continue to seek lower prices, which can be disheartening.
Despite these challenges, Menhir's passion for zellige remains unwavering. He refers to himself as a "Mtaallam" (learner) on social media, rejecting the title of "Maâlem" (master), as he believes that the journey of learning is endless. His experiences have shaped not only his skills as an artisan but also his outlook on life, instilling in him a constant curiosity and a belief that personal development is a lifelong journey, both within and outside the workshop.
As reported by yabiladi.com.
