Abdellah Azizi: A Desert Once Underwater

"I observed a landscape in Morocco that was entirely new to me," Azizi remarks. "I couldn't help but wonder how it appeared many years ago when it lay submerged underwater." His work invites viewers to imagine the vibrant marine ecosystem that once thrived in what is now a stark desert landscape.

Azizi's unique perspective transforms these ancient coral formations into works of art. He skillfully captures the contrast between the sharp, weathered rocks and the soft, undulating sand dunes surrounding them. Through his lens, we're transported to a bygone era, reimagining the life that once flourished in this now-arid environment.

More than just an artist, Azizi sees himself as a professional who travels for work. His journeys across Morocco, using both traditional and modern transportation methods, have given him a deep appreciation for the country's diverse landscapes and hidden wonders.

This series not only showcases Azizi's artistic talent but also highlights the fascinating geological history of the Sahara, reminding us of the constant changes our planet undergoes.

Azizi's primary tool is the creative use of long exposure photography. This technique allows him to capture the intricate shapes and forms of the cave-like structures in the abandoned coral reef. The result is a series of images that seem to glow with an otherworldly light, hinting at the aquatic past of this now-desert landscape.

To further enhance the marine atmosphere of his shots, Azizi introduces a unique element: blue light. "I employ the light painting technique whenever possible," he explains. This method involves using a frontal lamp and an indigo-dyed piece of fabric to experiment with composition and colors.

The combination of long exposure and blue light allows Azizi to craft compositions that are both visually striking and evocative of the site's history. The soft, ethereal glow he achieves stands in beautiful contrast to the harsh, arid environment, creating a dreamlike quality in his images.

Through these techniques, Azizi doesn't just capture the landscape as it is today. He reimagines it, allowing viewers to see both the present reality and a glimpse of its submerged past. His innovative approach to photography transforms these ancient coral formations into captivating works of art, bridging the gap between documentary and creative expression.