MUSTAPHA AKRIM (MOROCCAN, B. 1981)

Contemporary Moroccan artist Mustapha Akrim is part of a new generation of artists that are developing a new language with which to refine the basis of expression in visual arts in Morocco. His works question the concept of labour, its relationship to youth and the job market and aims to tackle the difference between construction and creation in light of society's constant state of change. In Article 25, the artist chooses to use cement to cast the words outlining article 25 in the Moroccan Constitution which stipulates that everyone has the right to freedom of thought and expression. It is a sarcastic commentary on the lack of rights that the common people have. Especially in today's political climate, this piece is a strong reminder of the harsh realities of the Middle East.