Meriem Bennani has launched a new exhibition called ‘For My Best Family’. This exhibition is hosted by Fondazione Prada and is one of the most ambitious projects she has ever created. It took her over two years to finish this exciting work, which includes an installation and a fascinating film.
The exhibition is all about how we connect with each other in both public and private spaces. Meriem combines elements from social media, reality shows, and animation with a touch of humour to tell her stories. She taps into important topics like identity, gender issues, and the influence of technology on our lives.
READ MORE: Samurai Farai’s Art Show Embraces African Stories And Identities
When you walk into the exhibition, the first thing you’ll notice on the ground floor is a huge installation featuring 192 flip-flops and slippers. They are wired to perform a dance in a display called ‘Sole crushing’.
This is not just a random assembly of footwear; it’s a mechanical masterpiece! Each flip-flop moves in sync with others, creating a beautiful ballet that feels alive. The music, created with the help of music producer Reda Senhaji, adds to the experience, making it a joyful and chaotic celebration.
The installation is designed with various shapes and forms, resembling orchestras and sculptures. It aims to capture collective experiences, echoing the spirit of traditional Moroccan music and the energy of protests.
On the first floor, visitors can watch a specially created art film titled ‘For Aicha’. This film was co-directed by Meriem Bennani and Orian Barki, speaking about New York, Rabat, and Casablanca. The film tells the story of Bouchra, a 35-year-old Moroccan jackal who is a filmmaker living in New York. She grapples with her identity and the relationship with her mother, Aicha, who lives in Casablanca.
READ MORE: South African Artists Collaborate With Local Studios For 1-54 London
Using animated animals, the film shows audiences the complexities of family love, pain, and the search for understanding. Bouchra explores her past through conversations with her mother, mixing real-life experiences with fictional storytelling.
