Part of the Sound of Colors series, "Aita" is a visual translation of the ancestral cry of the Moroccan plains. It captures the raw, unbridled energy of the Shikhat—the fierce female poets and performers who have carried the history of tribes through their songs of love, defiance, and freedom. This piece does not just depict a musical scene; it vibrates with the rhythm of the Chaabi spirit.
The Composition
The artwork presents a powerful trio of figures, staging the hierarchy and harmony of a traditional performance:
- The Melody: Standing stoically on the left, the violinist (holding the Kamanja) anchors the composition. Her instrument is the heartbeat of the Aita, bridging the gap between silence and trance.
- The Diva: In the foreground, a figure reclines on a chair with an air of regal nonchalance. Her relaxed posture contrasts with the vibrant energy around her, embodying the confidence and status of a seasoned Shikha.
- The Chorus: The central figure binds the group together, draped in a kaleidoscope of patterns.