Abdelghafour Elmaftouhi

I am a self-taught string artist. My passion for art was awakened in my childhood, guiding my path towards evolution and renewal. I explored various art forms, such as sculpture, mosaics, and embroidery, before discovering in the art of weaving an innovative technique to express my ideas.
A significant achievement emerged in 2020, when I successfully created several remarkable works using the string art technique, an art requiring advanced mathematical and technical skills. My creations harmoniously combine beauty and complexity, with each painting requiring a considerable investment of time due to its sophistication and details.
Building on my participation in various art exhibitions in northern Morocco, I aspire to organize other events, whether collective or individual, to shine on the global art scene. My art is tinged with a Sufi dimension, merging artistic expression with spirituality. When creating my paintings, I immerse myself in a contemplative experience requiring rituals and deep concentration. Inspiration comes from solitude and reflection. I enjoy creating works that express beauty in a uniquely Sufi way.

Technique and Creativity in String Art

In my works, wood is my canvas. I begin by fixing a set of nails—sometimes up to 300 or more—onto the surface to form a defined frame. This frame becomes the foundation of my artistic creation, where I connect the nails with colored threads. I start with black and white threads to outline the contours, then add colors to express the details and depth.

This creative process demands precision and patience. As I connect the threads to the nails, a complex artistic vision takes shape, reflected in every detail. I must master the curves, horizontal, and vertical lines to achieve harmony and balance in the piece.

This method is not easy; it requires time and patience. Each painting takes me several months to master, but this investment is ultimately reflected in the final result. Spirituality plays an important role in this process, where I immerse myself in a contemplative experience that combines creativity and spirituality.

By using this unique method, I merge technical skill with artistic creativity. It is like a magical potion that permeates the works.

Embodiment of Moroccan Authenticity

In art, the value of authenticity is particularly manifested, allowing the artist to embody the essence of their culture and heritage through their works.

In my artistic creations, I aim to express a part of Moroccan authenticity. This is reflected through the tarbouches (traditional hats) drawn above each character, an accessory that represents an aspect of Morocco’s heritage and culture.

Furthermore, I also incorporate the beauty of traditional tattoos associated with the Amazigh Moroccan woman. By integrating these elements into my paintings, I offer a varied interpretation of Moroccan authenticity and identity.

As a result, I strive for my creations to reflect a journey of rediscovery of the roots of heritage. They serve as a reminder of the values and traditions that form a distinctive cultural fabric. In this context, artistic works can serve as a bridge between authentic beauty and contemporary creativity, embodying traditions in a new and modern way.

Ultimately, my artworks express the depth of the Moroccan soul, the richness of heritage and traditions. The beauty lies in continuity and uniqueness, and when authenticity meets creativity, a balance is created, generating moments of contemplation and a springboard between the past and the present.