About

Hicham Touarass (b. 1981, Essaouira, Morocco) is a contemporary Moroccan visual artist who lives and works in Essaouira.

Raised in an artistic environment within a family of artisans specialized in thuya wood marquetry, he developed from an early age a refined sensitivity to form, structure, and material. His artistic journey began with Amazigh carpet weaving, a formative experience that continues to inform his visual language.

He has also cultivated a strong interest in Arabic calligraphy, which brings fluidity and movement to his work. His practice is further shaped by the pointillist and naïve art traditions characteristic of Essaouira, contributing to a distinctive visual identity that balances spontaneity with conceptual awareness.

Self-taught, Touarass has developed a unique pictorial approach centered on rhythm, repetition, and texture. His compositions merge geometry and movement with vibrant color, creating a dynamic dialogue between Moroccan heritage and contemporary abstraction.

He held his first solo exhibition in 2016 in Essaouira, and has since participated in numerous international art events, including Berlin, Paris, Milan, and Lisbon. He also runs a permanent exhibition space in Essaouira, located at 10 Skala Street, Medina.

His work has been recognized with several international awards in contemporary art, affirming his positi