Acoby's Artistic Journey: From 8-Bit Nostalgia to Nature-Inspired Murals
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Time to read 2 min
Ayoub Lyaacoubi, known as Acoby, believes his true artistic journey began after leaving the National Institute of Fine Arts in Tetouan, Morocco, in 2022.
This decision liberated his creative process, allowing him to create without the constraints often imposed by academic institutions.
"Having the unusual and non-formal ways of making work that I have, certainly have put me in stress during my time at art school. Once I had that freedom is when the journey began,"
Nature as a Profound Inspiration
Nature, particularly the floral world, plays a significant role in Acoby's work. His latest murals and sketches draw heavily from botanical shapes and forms.
"I love plants and I love all of nature, in fact, but the green part of nature is one that I see so much communality in. There is just that much we have in common with plants and I find it very inspiring,"
For Acoby, his art is a physical manifestation of his gratitude and appreciation for the natural world, a sentiment deeply rooted in his faith.
The Pixel Series: A Return to Simplicity
Acoby's pixel series emerged after a visit to YASALAM, where he saw his work displayed.
This experience prompted him to explore new ways to simplify his compositions.
"My workflow was always about simplifying my experience and passing it through to paper," Acoby recalled. "I remember drawing on grid notebooks back in college to have been one of the most fun times I had drawing. I'd like to believe we all did that when we were younger."
This return to the simplicity and therapeutic nature of filling blocks has become a defining feature of his current work, blending nostalgia with contemporary artistic expression.
Embracing Collaboration through GOMA
While Acoby always believed in "community" and frequently engaged with various groups, his involvement with the GOMA collective opened new doors for collaboration.
"GOMA is the space for me that opened the door to 'collaboration' as an important form in the work that I make and one that I dedicate an important amount of my time to," he explained.
Looking Ahead
As Acoby continues to evolve as an artist, he remains excited about his ongoing and upcoming projects, with a particular emphasis on collaboration.
Art enthusiasts and fellow creators alike are eager to see what innovative works will emerge from his collaborative endeavors.
Acoby's journey serves as an inspiring example of how breaking free from conventional constraints and embracing one's unique vision can lead to a flourishing artistic career.
Acoby is a Moroccan artist whose true creative journey began after leaving art school in 2022.
Liberated from academic constraints, he embraces unconventional approaches.
Acoby draws profound inspiration from nature, particularly plants, finding commonality in their vibrancy. His artistic path intertwines with personal growth, often pondered over coffee.