Title: Tattooed women in Morocco: a celebration of self-expression despite persistent taboos
Introduction :
Morocco, a country rich in ancestral traditions, is home to a centuries-old practice: tattooing. While this form of artistic expression was once common among the Berbers, today it is still widely considered taboo in Moroccan society, particularly when it comes to women. However, a recent exhibition entitled “Wise Women” organized by the French Institute of Casablanca highlights this tradition by featuring profiles of tattooed women, created by Aïda, a Moroccan tattoo artist living in France. This exhibition not only serves to celebrate this ancestral art, but also to challenge social norms and encourage pride in self-expression.
Ancient traditions:
For centuries, tattoos were an integral part of Berber culture in Morocco, for both men and women. Some depicted war or chivalry, others were expressions of nature, and there were also designs that showed women ready for marriage. However, starting in the 1970s, attitudes towards tattooing began to change in Morocco. Today, despite a resurgence of the art, it is still frowned upon by many people, particularly when the tattoos are worn by women.
Slow modernization:
Nabil Ammoura, a tattoo artist based in Rabat, himself notes a gradual evolution in Moroccan society with regard to tattooing. While 10 years ago, tattooing was almost exclusively reserved for men in Morocco, nowadays, more and more women are taking the plunge and getting tattooed. This is partly explained by the opening of quality tattoo studios, where parents can accompany their daughters and ensure that everything happens in good conditions. Despite this, certain prejudices persist and women are still admonished for their tattoos.
An act of emancipation:
For women with tattoos, these marks on their skin often represent much more than just an ornament. They are an affirmation of their freedom and a means of emancipating themselves from social constraints. Tattoos become tools for expressing their strength, perseverance and rebellion. Zineb Achraka, a Moroccan who has lived in France and Italy, talks about how her tattoos were an opportunity for her to show her resilience in the face of life’s challenges. Despite criticism and bans, she affirms that everyone is free to do what they want with their body.
Conclusion :
The “Wise Women” exhibition at the French Institute of Casablanca offers a unique platform to break taboos and promote tattooing as a form of self-expression. It highlights the ancient Moroccan tradition while highlighting the challenges that tattooed women face in a society still reluctant to this form of art. The road to full acceptance of tattooing in Morocco is still long, but this exhibition helps to open minds and encourage greater tolerance towards this form of personal expression.