The Saharawi refugee camps exist in one of the world’s most inhospitable environments. Sand dunes and hard scrabble stretch to the horizon. During summer months, desert temperatures rise above 50 degrees centigrade. But art is often found in the unlikeliest places.
Before their exile, oral arts dominated Saharawi creative expression. But this is changing. Mohammed Suleiman is introducing abstract art to the Saharawi.
Suleimen began by collecting rubbish from around the camp. He used the refuse first to build a studio, which is uniquely adapted to the harsh environment. Later, he used refuse to create works of art. Suleimen also maintains more traditional forms of art, drawing calligraphy.
His studio is built on wheels, meaning he can transport it to the Occupied Zone when liberation comes.
As an expression of the soul, music is also being used to spread the tales of plight faced by the Saharawi people in Africa’s last colony.
The unique music of the El’ Walid band is combining with abstract art to tell their story on social media. The Saharawi people’s oral tradition has now found its modern voice.