5 Minutes with the 'Andy Warhol of Marrakech'

CAIRO – 27 October 2017: Contemporary artist

Hassan Hajjaj

, known as the “Andy Warhol of Marrakech,” recently spoke with Egypt Today about certain facets in his work as an artist.

Hailing from Morocco, Hajjaj has recently come under international attention for his unique photography. He began his artistic career later in life when he first started randomly talking photos for fun and snowballing into a full development of a unique and memorable style that is infused with elements of Arab culture and colorful everyday objects.

Hajjaj is currently showing his works in an exhibition titled “La Caravane” at London’s Somerset House, running from October 5 until January 7, 2018.

ET: Who do you consider to be your greatest artistic inspirations?

HH: There are several but the first that comes to mind would be Malick Sidibe (I feel lucky I was able to meet him when I was in Bamako a few years back) and Henri Cartier-Bresson.


Mimz, photograph by ©Hassan Hajjaj, courtesy of the artist and Vigo Gallery_preview


ET: How do you think the “you” of 10 years ago would feel about where you're at now?

HH: He would feel lucky to have the freedom to be able to do what he does and meet the interesting people who crosses his path. To this day, it all feels pretty surprising.

ET: You've been called the “Andy Warhol of Marrakech.” What inspired this moniker?

HH: That is a short description that was created by the press and even though I can understand how it relates to my work, I don't feel it qualifies me as he was not my inspiration. I think it was easily labeled by my use of cans of products. I use those products as a fun option to recreate mosaics but also relate to the photo.

ET: What messages do you always seek to deliver through your art most of all?

HH: I hope my work shows a celebration of life, diversity of people, talent and cultures across borders that can mix peacefully, respectfully and positively.


Hindi Rockin', photograph by ©Hassan Hajjaj, courtesy of the artist and Vigo Gallery_preview

ET: What advice would you give an aspiring artist?

HH: Make, make and make more without any high expectation for yourself. Work hard and don’t give up.


Khadija, photograph by ©Hassan Hajjaj, courtesy of the artist and Vigo Gallery_preview