In last month’s “Artist of the Month” feature, we explored the captivating world of birds with the talented Younes and his detailed graphite illustrations. This month, we’re switching quills to dive deep with Marouane, whose affinity for ink as an art medium brings the wonders of nature to life.
Meet Marouane, a 26-year-old agricultural engineer whose fascination with wildlife and nature has fuelled his journey as a self-taught artist. Growing up surrounded by the natural beauty of his hometown, Bhalil, and inspired by the vibrant life in his grandmother’s garden, Marouane developed a deep appreciation for the diversity of the natural world. This love for nature has found its expression in his intricate and detailed artwork, showcasing Morocco’s rich natural heritage.
Marouane’s artistic style took a new direction when he discovered the power of ink. Inspired by artists like Kerby Rosanes, who shared imaginative ink doodles on social media, Marouane found ink’s simplicity and precision appealing. “With ink, you don’t have to deal with colors, you only have to deal with values, and it’s easier to be more precise and master the details” he explains. His casual doodling in school evolved into a daily practice, leading him to seek resources that could improve his technique. Alphonso Dunn’s famous book, -Pen and Ink Drawing-, became a pivotal tool, helping him understand the nuances of ink drawing and refining his skills. “That book was a game changer,” Marouane shares, crediting it with his leap forward in technical ability.
Marouane’s latest piece features a chameleon, a creature he finds fascinating and reminiscent of his childhood. “It kind of looks like a dinosaur, it can change its skin color, and it catches its prey with lightning speed” he says with enthusiasm. The chameleon holds a unique place in his heart, and with this reptile as his subject, Marouane’s goal is to capture its distinct characteristics —from its complex skin texture to the spiral curl of its tail—while challenging himself to experiment with new techniques and styles.
Marouane’s work is a testament to his passion for both the natural world and artistic expression. His intricate ink drawings, inspired by everything from the natural landscapes of Morocco to the creatures in his childhood memories, showcase his commitment to detail and his curiosity for life’s wonders. As he continues to grow as an artist, his unique blend of scientific observation and artistic talent promises to bring more of Morocco’s natural beauty to the forefront. Looking forward, our artist is eager to broaden his artistic horizons. He hopes to create more original pieces that are rooted in emotion and imagination, moving beyond direct observation. “I hope someday I can do more original stuff, like drawing from imagination or creating art based on emotions or ideas” he shares. Marouane also aims to improve his skills in portraiture and color, recognizing that these are lifelong pursuits that will continue to shape his art. For him, art is a journey—one he plans to explore step by step, continually learning and evolving.
