Bouchra Khalili: Stories within Stories

Khalili's artistic approach combines performative strategies of storytelling, reactivating the civil poetry as defined by Pier Paolo Pasolini, and inspired by the old tradition of Moroccan Al-Halqa. She creates civic platforms for first-person accounts, forming collective stories of resistance.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 13 October 2022
Publisher: Hatje Cantz

Drawing inspiration from post-independence avant-gardes and the rich vernacular traditions of her native Morocco, Khalili's artistic approach seamlessly blends performative strategies of storytelling with the civil poetry as envisioned by Italian poet and filmmaker Pier Paolo Pasolini. This poetic form, inspired by the ancient tradition of Moroccan Al-Halqa, serves as a powerful political voice that champions the collective one from the singular experience. Much like Pasolini's civic poet, who mirrors the Moroccan Halqa, the country's most ancient form of public storytelling, Khalili's work challenges official historiographies and narratives, ultimately becoming the living archives and public voice of the people. By incorporating a mix of popular tales, ancient poems, and political references, the Al-Halqa performer subverts established narratives, ultimately empowering the people to shape their own stories of resistance. Similarly, Khalili's artistic endeavors create civic platforms for first-person accounts, fostering the growth of collective narratives that resonate with communities and advocate for social change. Through her innovative fusion of art and politics, Khalili contributes to a vibrant and dynamic landscape of artistic expression, inspiring both individuals and communities to embrace their unique narratives and contribute to a more inclusive and empowered society.

Weight: 700g
Dimension: 240 x 170 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783775750516