Al Aabal I'bada

With Alex Schmidt & Sonia Hamza
Artisan Artist Residency Sefrou, Fez, Morocco 2014

Al Aabal I'bada is an Arabic proverb which means ‘Working is a Prayer’
This non-narrative video work explores the patterns in traditional artisanal life in Morocco today. Drawing from and reflecting on the patterns shared by the artisans, in their daily work, in the sounds of their world, and in their shared experiences. The piece reflects the rewards of patience to be found in repetitive work, as well as the possible end of that type of work for many of the traditional crafts.

Alex Schmidt took inspiration from Gnawa music rhythms and their repetitive nature to create the sound design, which makes up the spine of the piece. This was then overlayed with interviews conducted in a style inspired by those used to conduct UX Research. 

Using photographs and video taken by me Cat Wilson and French photographer Sonia Hamsa, Alex also did most of the editing of the visual component of the piece.  The images and footage were captured over several weeks during visits to the studios and workshops of the artisans.