Abdo and Hamid are the creators of Babouck Souk, and their journeys across Morocco’s souks have formed a deep bond with the country’s craftspeople. These young Moroccan Berber ladies have learned to respect the workmanship of the civilizations to which they belong, admiring their history and highlighting their purity and naturalness, apart from the European style mindset.
What was the start of Babouck Souk adventure?
abdo is from a Berber nomadic family and marrakech crafts men’s. We inherited a wealth of knowledge that was passed down from generation to generation with zeal and devotion. Our authenticity, uniqueness, and identity have all been influenced by artistic principles. With my trips to Morocco around 15 years ago, I began my exploration of the lovely things of the world. I was seeking for one-of-a-kind handcrafted products with their unique tales and materials that would make you joyful in everyday life. babouch souk was born there roughly two years ago.
What is your occupation? How do you go about deciding which pieces to use?
Hamid: I believe the unique aspect of my work is traveling to souks and villages outside of the Berber areas in search of remarkable objects from exceptional people. I choose to continue in the footsteps of my forefathers, creating and discovering products that are both magnificent and helpful in everyday life, and that are 100 percent handcrafted.
Tell us about the craftspeople; where do they get inspiration?
Abdo: Because the materials were free and they were destitute, these women and men artists began to construct… Many of them still have trouble seeing the sort of modern home that their works of art are linked with. These items have extremely antique engravings that may also be seen in many of the region’s historic embellishments. Every pattern has a deeper meaning.
Do you believe Moroccan art is seeing a renaissance?
Hamid: We believe that more consumers are becoming dissatisfied with manufactured goods. People are seeking for one-of-a-kind items that tell a compelling narrative. And the Berber artist understands how to use his works to convey stories.
Abdo: We’d want to put a greater emphasis on the development of Berber know-how. We want artists to be able to completely enjoy their lives without having to worry about fundamental requirements that remain unmet for some of them even now. We collaborate with these artists to resurrect traditional art and offer new life to those who have been affected by the economic and social upheavals of human communities.
Hamid: I first saw them in Berber homes as a useful thing and thought they were beautiful. Then I saw them in ultra-modern homes alongside artifacts from different civilizations! It’s always lovely to see an interior that’s full with feelings.
The souks’ multicolored realm, where numerous products jostle…, is the holy domain of artisans who, day after day, repeat ancient movements passed from father to son. Plaster, stone, dirt, wood, and argan-based cosmetics are all made from raw materials. These painters create lavish interiors that are rich in color, geometric, and floral patterns.
Don’t miss out on our biggest sale of the year. Get 10% OFF on our selected products.
