Marie Bastide, one of Marrakech’s sought after photographers officially launched a studio gallery in Gueliz. Her signature red medina walls, palm trees, and pictures that offer a window into the soul of Marrakech can now be seen in a dedicated space. Bastide’s work was previously available through her Instagram account and in pockets of the medina. Some of her postcards and photographs are sold at La Terrasse des Épices and La Famille Cafe along with Max & Jan,
The Parisian born artist was originally bound for an architecture career. During her studies, she took small creative jobs which ended up lead to something bigger on her first visit to Marrakech several years ago. When describing her immediate impressions of Morocco, she explains feeling amazed by the simple, pure and beautiful things that characterize the country. Human values for example, and of course the architecture. In an interview with Life is Morocco Magazine, she expressed “the incredible light, the colorful djellabas, the arid landscapes, the palms everywhere … (made her feel) an immediate sense of belonging.” On her vacation to Marrakech, she felt inspired to photograph. Since the original click, she has taken every chance to return to the North African country.
After graduation, she intended to move to London or New York, however, Morocco called to her name. Her passion and excitement led the way. She arrived in Morocco, knocked on the door of designer Valerie Barkowski to inquire about work, and suddenly her Moroccan story came to life. While interning with Barkowski, she worked on installations, sourcing, and decoration for Dar Kawa. With close access to the medina, she was inspired to continue taking photographs.
The result, her dedication, and passion have unraveled into a new, unplanned career. Bastide’s photographs often avoid faces as a sign of respect for the culture. Families and children play a key role in Moroccan life and are at the heart of her work.
Maria Bastide, 68, Angle Boulevard Zertouni et Rue, Tariq Bnou Riad, Gueliz.