Gnawa Maalem Bleu
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THE DETAILS
Gnawa Maalem Bleu
Gnawa musicians are led by the master musician, mâalem, portrayed at the center of Mâalem Bleu.
Robed in blue and holding a traditional ganga drum, he is flanked by musicians playing the qraqeb, a castanet-like instrument, and two additional musicians on a smaller scale.
35" x 78"
100% linen
Hand-rolled sides, raw hem
Limited run of 15
Made in Italy
Dry clean
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THE STORY
He’s the maestro.
Only after years of study under another master can he lead this group of musicians and dancers. Toting his guembri, a three-stringed lute, the other musicians follow his lead playing their large castenet qraqeb, and the ganga drum. Their voices join and blend with the instruments. The master sings out to the musicians and audience, and you respond with voice and body to answer his call, swaying to the hypnotic rhythms of the Gnawa song. You won’t hear it from his own lips, but call him Mâalem. -
THE PROCESS
The phases of bringing the Maalem print to life in linen.
