Heart motifs appear constantly throughout the work of Moroccan-Belgian photographer Mous Lamrabat (b. 1983). In To the Moon and Back #2 (2021), two figures wear the symbol in red over their clothes, vibrant colours matching a stack of fez hats balancing on their heads. Another piece, titled Where is the Love #2 (2019), presents the iconic shape through the outline of a man鈥檚 headwear. In an interview for 1-54 Art Fair, Lamrabat explains:
Lamrabat鈥檚 story is a shining example. After graduating in 2009 with a degree in interior design, he made the decision to pursue what he enjoyed most instead 鈥 photography. The influence of his education still sparkles in his signature style, which is defined by a skilful use of colour theory and staging. Lamrabat鈥檚 list of collaborations with high-profile brands is dazzling, from Burberry and Chanel to Yves Saint Laurent Beauty. Now debuting in France, these images are on display at Galerie Le Ch芒teau d鈥橢au in Toulouse.
The McDonalds鈥 鈥淢鈥 is another repeating pattern. In one shot, it covers the hands of a veiled subject. Elsewhere, the logo appears as an earring, its yellow popping against a model鈥檚 skin. Lamrabat鈥檚 subjects exist in a parallel universe, one where people are free to express themselves through humour, empathy and irreverence. This exhibition draws on the artist’s multicultural identity; he debunks North African stereotypes and expertly layers western brands with symbols from across Morocco and Belgium.
Love at First Sight (2018) shows two people leaning close to each other. Fabric wraps their heads, obstructing their moment of intimacy. The image alludes to Surrealist artist Rene Magritte鈥檚 (1898-1967) famous oil painting, The Lovers (1928). By referencing popular culture, art history and his Euro-African heritage, Lamrabat鈥檚 work bursts with nuances that invites viewers to take a closer look. Whilst his pieces are rarely paired with explanatory information, Lambrabat makes clear that this open-endedness has a purpose, stating:
Mous Lamrabat | 2 June – 27 August 2023
Words: Diana Bestwish Tetteh
Image Credits: All images courtesy of Mous Lamrabat.
