Tradition Meets Pop Culture
Zineb Belrhiti
Portrait of Zineb Belrhiti, Courtesy of the artist
As a Moroccan artist who grew up in the multicultural environment of Dubai and studied in London, Zineb Belrhiti was influenced by her experiences from these diverse cultures, which have shaped not only her art but her entire worldview. Her work reflects the intricate interplay of heritage, nostalgia and modernity, with a particular focus on exploring Arab identity through illustration. Here, Belrhiti shares how her background, studies and life journey have influenced her creative process and helped shape her unique aesthetic.
Talk to us about your background. How have your cultural experiences shaped your identity, not just as an artist but as a person?
I’m Moroccan, but I spent most of my life in Dubai, a diverse city that shaped my identity. I moved to Dubai at age three and attended a French school, blending French and Arab cultures. Later, my studies in London added another layer of cultural diversity. Growing up with varied cultural influences has shaped me profoundly. My Moroccan heritage gives me a deep appreciation for community, warmth and tradition, while living in Dubai taught me openness and adaptability. My education in London instilled a global outlook and independence. These experiences inspire me to incorporate diverse narratives and aesthetics into my work.
Talk to us about your studies; how have they influenced your creative approach?
My studies in London were focused on computer science, but I explored creative fields like computer music and filmmaking. This flexibility allowed me to experiment with various art forms while focusing on illustration. My work is a reflection of my studies, combining complexity with visual harmony. Both my education and creative process are about finding balance.
Can you walk us through a day in your creative process?
My creative process begins when an idea sparks in my mind, often combining unrelated elements in a meaningful way. From there, I sketch and gather visual inspiration. I experiment with blending contrasting ideas in a playful, accessible way.
When you're creating a new piece, is there a specific place or experience you return to mentally that provides you with clarity or inspiration?
When creating, I often draw inspiration from childhood memories and the vibrant, diverse environments I’ve experienced, like Dubai. I also find inspiration in music, which shapes my vision and triggers memories that inform my work.
Looking back at your journey, what advice would you give to your younger self?
Looking back, I’d tell my younger self to experiment more and embrace imperfection. Every experience contributes to shaping me as an artist. I would encourage myself to explore my cultural roots further, especially learning Arabic properly.
Who is your Diva?
My "Diva" is my mom, who instilled in me a deep connection to Arab culture through music and art. The Arab women in my life have also shaped my work ethic and aesthetic, as we share common cultural references and memories. These conversations celebrate our shared identity, and their influence shapes how I view my place in the world.
