In Conversation with Moroccan Gallerist Hadia Temli
Typical of this moment in time, my conversation with Hadia was held over Zoom, but despite the distance and the now familiar glare of our computer screens, our conversation was free-flowing and could easily have lasted for hours.
Hadia Temli comes from a family steeped in the rich traditions of Moroccan arts and crafts. She brims with passion for the subject as she expresses her desire to both champion and preserve Moroccan heritage and culture. In founding Galerie Siniya28, Hadia has created a space which acts as the catalyst for ‘a key to turn inside’ and for visitors to fully understand the sensitivity behind the work of the artists she represents.
– Jenny Lockton, Founder & Creative Director Bohemia Design
What first inspired you to open Galerie Siniya28?
In 2007 my father and I founded Galerie Tindouf, a contemporary art space representing established and mature artists such as Lalla Essaydi (b.1956) and Claudio Bravo (1936-2011). After the wonderful success of Galerie Tindouf, I decided to create Galerie Siniya28 in 2016 as a new younger space dedicated to emerging artists.
How did your interest in art develop?
My interest in art developed really early on as I grew up in a family passionate about art and craft. My grandfather was known for having one of the most reputable bazaars in Tangier and my father worked in the world of antiques, so my childhood home was filled with local treasures and artifacts from all corners of the globe.
I later went on to study History of Art and Architecture in London, and I was so grateful to be able to pursue this familial passion on a deeper and more academic level.
Who and what most inspires you in your life and work?
What inspires me the most in my life and work is my family. I am blessed to work closely with my father in the arts, and my mother has always been my number one supporter in pursuing different routes and not being afraid to push boundaries.
Painting by Regragui Bouslai (b.1963)
Do you have a favourite artist and what is it that touches you about their work?
My all-time favourite artist has to be Lalla Essaydi. Through the medium of photography she criticizes the Orientalist male gaze and empowers Arab women to resist objectification and stereotypes. What I also love about Lalla's work is her aesthetic and the poetry of her language that carries a strong and powerful statement.
Have you found any particular challenges to being a woman-owned and run business in Morocco or internationally?
I don’t identify with any of the challenges of being a woman in the art world, in Morocco or internationally. I think the field of art and creativity is in perfect harmony with the female being.
What do you dream of?
I dream of a more 'real' and authentic world, where the virtual world does not overpower mankind, and where love and peace prevail.
What do you think the future holds for young and emerging creatives in Morocco?
I believe Morocco is an incredibly rich and inspiring place for young and emerging creatives. It's in a strategic geographical location, and its energy and cultural heritage make Morocco a goldmine for future talent.
