Bakr (Bakr Addaoui)
TITLE
TAMGHAT
ARTIST
Bakr (Bakr Addaoui)
LOCATION
Hilton Chicago: 720 S. Michigan Avenue (at Balbo and Wabash)
PHOTO CREDIT
Sandra Steinbrecher
ARTIST STATEMENT
In the high elevations and deep valleys of the Moroccan Atlas Mountains are scattered small forgotten villages where the Amazigh community lives. I made several visits to the Atlas Mountains, where I was charmed by the energy of nature and the beauty of the locals, by their faces, language, and traditions. They always welcome their guests with goodness and a special traditional group dance called "Ahidous," where men, women, and children dance and sing in a beautiful harmony. This work is a tribute to those people and to the Moroccan Amazigh culture.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
As a child, Bakr spent his time observing his father’s gestures, silently painting pictures in their house in Fes, an ancient city of Morocco. Gifted and passionate about drawing, he began studies where he refined his color development, met working artists, and was inspired by a teacher who opened his eyes to the reality of the life of a studio artist. After winning several competitions in Fes, he moved to Rabat to pursue his career. About to give up the dream of being an artist, he discovered the vibrant Moroccan street art scene and gained commissions in Casablanca. He participated in the Jidar International Festival in Rabat. Taking advantage of his strong background in classical painting while freeing himself from academic constraints, Bakr developed a dynamic painting technique attuned to the giant formats of street art. His fluid technique gives the impression that his characters literally move on the wall. In a short time, he has established himself in the Moroccan street art scene and is gaining international invitations.
About This Project
This project was produced in conjunction with the Casablanca Committee of Chicago Sister Cities International, in collaboration with Francis W. Parker School where Bakr was in residence in October 2022. Additional support was provided by Hilton Chicago. Installation assistance was provided by Ruby Bean and Adele Hening (Hink).
About Chicago Sister Cities International
Chicago Sister Cities International advances Chicago as a global city and promotes peace through mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation through citizen diplomacy—one individual, one community at a time—for the benefit of Chicago and its sister cities. To accomplish its mission, Chicago Sister Cities International develops programs in the areas of cultural arts and tourism, global education, government relations, and international business.
Chicago Sister Cities International is an initiative of World Business Chicago, a public-private, nonprofit partnership that drives inclusive economic growth and job creation, supports business, and promotes Chicago as a leading global city.
About Francis W. Parker School
Francis W. Parker School educates students to think and act with empathy, courage, and clarity as responsible citizens and leaders in a diverse democratic society and global community.
Conveniently located on Michigan Avenue across from Grant Park, the iconic Hilton Chicago combines a contemporary design with an exciting atmosphere. The 1,544-guestroom hotel boasts more than 234,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and can accommodate large conferences and conventions, smaller meetings, and elegant banquets. Additional amenities include an indoor running track, large fitness center, indoor pool as well as dining options including Kitty O’Sheas Irish Pub, Herb N’ Kitchen, and 720 South Bar & Grill.