Dia Al-Azzawi's Creative Exploration in Geneva
At the remarkable age of 87, Dia Al-Azzawi, a prominent figure in the contemporary Arab art scene, is continuing his creative journey, drawing inspiration from Morocco for a new series of artworks that encapsulate how a place can be transformed into a pictorial memory. This latest exhibition, titled "Inner Worlds, Under Open Skies," is being showcased by La Galerie 38 in Geneva during the "Geneva Art Week". The collection is deeply influenced by locations that have left a mark on Al-Azzawi, with particular emphasis on Marrakech and its iconic Majorelle Garden, known for its striking blue hues that resonate throughout the artist's work, becoming a recurring motif across the entire collection.
Explaining the essence of his creations, Al-Azzawi noted that these works were crafted over the past two years, fundamentally reflecting his growing interest in nature. This artistic approach highlights the importance Al-Azzawi places on observing the natural world and illustrates how lived experiences can evolve and transform within the creative process. The exhibited pieces reveal a more contemplative side of his artistry, where color acts as a language celebrating the beauty of nature, evoking aesthetic wonder and a sense of nostalgia for a shared Arab heritage. Through these artworks, viewers are invited into a sensory experience where memory, poetry, and landscape intertwine, bridging inner worlds with expansive horizons.
The Impact of Marrakech on Al-Azzawi's Art
During his recent visits to Morocco, Al-Azzawi has translated the impressions from his time there onto canvas, particularly those drawn from Marrakech. He expresses a profound connection to the Majorelle Garden, describing it as one of Morocco's most exquisite examples of natural beauty. Rather than providing a strictly descriptive portrayal of Marrakech, his artworks convey an exploration of light, contrast, and color, allowing the landscapes, flora, and architecture to gradually dissolve into a more introspective vision where perception melds with memory. Al-Azzawi articulates that these works aim to construct something meaningful from memory, deeply rooted in his experiences in the city.
Beyond the visual aspects highlighted in the exhibition, Al-Azzawi's relationship with Morocco is also deeply personal and has historic roots, strengthened by connections with Moroccan artists like the late Farid Belkahia, Mohamed Melehi, and Mohamed Kacimi. He reflects on his longstanding ties to the country, recalling his first exhibition in Casablanca during the 1970s and subsequent showcases in various Moroccan cities. This new exhibition emerges from a desire to maintain his relationship with Morocco, both geographically and through his sense of belonging to Arab culture. While some pieces directly relate to the city itself, others stem from his long-standing interest in transforming natural landscapes into abstract forms that focus on color and shape.
When asked about the potential for a larger exhibition in Morocco, Al-Azzawi confirmed that such a project is under consideration, although he refrained from providing specific details about dates or locations. This envisioned exhibition would encompass a collection of works and depend on the feasibility of gathering pieces that are currently dispersed, as well as the necessary conditions for their transportation. Through his lens, Al-Azzawi views Morocco as a nation brimming with opportunities across various sectors, emphasizing its role in preserving and promoting Arab culture in diverse forms. He acknowledges Morocco's commitment to Arab culture and its preservation, viewing it as a significant achievement within the Arab world.
Additionally, Al-Azzawi remains attentive to the evolution of the Moroccan art scene. While he is familiar with the first generation of prominent Moroccan artists, he believes that emerging generations deserve recognition and discovery. Born in Baghdad in 1939 and relocating to London in 1976, Dia Al-Azzawi is a multidisciplinary artist whose prolific works span painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, publishing, and design. He is notably a co-founder of the New Vision art movement established in 1969 and has had his works featured in prestigious collections, including the Bibliothèque nationale de France, the British Museum, the Institut du monde arabe, the Library of Congress, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the World Bank.
By presenting Al-Azzawi's work in Geneva, La Galerie 38 reaffirms its commitment to championing significant figures in modern and contemporary Arab art, while also highlighting the diverse narratives that shape the history of this artistic realm. Having established its presence in Casablanca and Marrakech, La Galerie 38 became the first Moroccan gallery to expand internationally, continuing its mission in Switzerland since 2025 and solidifying its presence on the global art stage.
As reported by quid.ma.
