Bohemia Magazine: A Celebration of Craft by Bohemia Design

A C E L E B R AT I O N O F C R A F T

Issue 1

Contents Issue 1

About Bohemia Design

Collection Moroccan Baskets

Collection Moroccan Slippers

Collection Leather Mules

Shopping Bohemia at Home

Restaurant Profile L’mida

Leather Mules Meet the Creatives

In Conversation Galerie Siniya28

L’mida Exclusive Recipe

Travel Bohemian Travellers

Contact Get In Touch

06 12 14

24 26

Travel Elopement

32 34

Contributors WRITERS

PHOTOGRAPHY

DESIGN

Erika Hobart Jenny Lockton

Erika Hobart Houssain Belabbes Ali Ait Karroum Pink Palm Studio Corey Lynn Tucker Emma Goodman Jenny Lockton

Emma Goodman Susan Mc Ateer

bohemia

E T H I C A L CO N T E M POR ARY D ES I GN

Working collaboratively with artisans in Morocco, India, Kenya, and Turkey, Bohemia produces timeless collections of functional objects. Our role is to act as a bridge between traditional crafting communities and an audience who value authentic goods that are sustainably produced. With a designer’s eye and years of expertise in this field, we work together with makers to update shapes, introduce contemporary colour palettes, and focus on the finer details to create a fusion between age-old tradition and modernity. We believe in handmade; perfectly imperfect wares crafted slowly from natural materials that are locally sourced. Goods made by hand bear the character of their creator, with the nuances and eccentricities integral to each piece. Fair trade is at the heart of Bohemia’s mission, and our relationships are built on trust, respect, equality and friendship. As a company our aim is to elevate the status of artisanal craft and those who produce it, and we have established our own workshops in Marrakech, Morocco, to improve the living and working conditions of our partners.

A note from the founder In a year like no other, when our lives slowed and the space we inhabit closed in, many of us have taken solace in nature and craft. Our immediate surroundings have come into sharper focus, birdsong sounds louder, parks and gardens our new doorstep edens. The poignant loss of physical contact with our friends and families has shone a light on the interconnectedness of our global family. Reflecting on what makes us human I keep coming back to our creative interaction with the world around us, from urban graffiti artists to rural weaving cooperatives. Craft touches something deep within us and in many cultures is a communal activity, more than fashioning purely utilitarian objects it is a way for us to express our joys and heartbreaks. My aim with this, our first publication, is to share a few of our own stories in celebration of craft. Thank you for joining us on the journey!

Babouche

slippers

Our beloved Babouche Slippers are crafted from the softest naturally tanned sheepskin leathers, cured using the same traditional methods as aeons past. They are the very first product we started to make in collaboration with the artisans of Marrakech. It was many years ago in the dwindling light at the end of a long day traversing the dusty, mazelike souks of the ancient medina that we first met Hamid, a fortuitous encounter and start of a friendship that continues to this day. Every pair of our classic babouche are made entirely by hand in Hamid’s small family run atelier, from the cutting and dyeing of the leathers to the final stitching. An iconic feature of Moroccan culture, the babouche slipper has been an important element of the traditional dress code for centuries. And like the very best of inventions, the babouche is as popular and relevant today as it has always been.

“These Moroccan slippers are FABULOUS! I slipped them on and have not taken them off. The only issue I have now is how many do I order and in what colours.” - Jane, customer review

In the hands of master craftsmen, babouche slippers can be fashioned in many different styles from various textiles and materials. A celebration of craft and vintage, our limited edition collection of babouche slippers are made from uniquely beautiful hand-loomed Boujad fabrics.

“If you suddenly and unexpectedly feel joy, don’t hesitate. Give in to it.” – Mary Oliver

Restaurant Profile // Moroccan-European Fusion // Medina, Marrakech OMAR LYAZIDI AND SIMO SEBBAGH are best friends and the co-owners of L’mida, a Moroccan-European fusion restaurant that’s tucked in a narrow alleyway in Marrakech’s medina. Its rooftop terrace has views of dusty-pink buildings and, on a clear day, the Atlas Mountains. It was an uncharacteristically overcast April afternoon when I met Lyazidi and Sebbagh there, but that didn’t dampen the pair’s enthusiasm... Words & Photography Erika Hobart

Lyazidi and Sebbagh, who are from Rabat and Marrakech, respectively, worked extensively in hospitality before going into business together. L’mida took four years to create and was an immediate success when it opened at the end of 2019. British celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay featured it on his National Geographic series Uncharted, and, consequently, the tables were always fully booked. The coronavirus pandemic has since slowed things down, but L’mida is still a favorite with locals and tourists alike. Despite its popularity, the restaurant’s atmosphere remains fun and unpretentious – which is important to Lyazidi and Sebbagh. “The name L’mida is derived from the word ‘table’ in Darija (Moroccan Arabic). When your grandmother tells you to come to l’mida, it means to come to the table and eat together,” Sebbagh explained. “Food is meant to be a

Nargisse Benkabbou, who is well known for the fusion recipes she shares on her popular blog My Moroccan Food. “People think that Moroccan food is all about couscous and tajines,” Lyazidi said. “But there’s so much more to it.” Sebbagh added, “We love Moroccan food. We come from traditional families and our moms make great food. But we thought, why not try something new? We wanted to offer something that you couldn’t get at other Moroccan restaurants.” L’mida puts a modern spin on several Moroccan cuisine favorites. Dishes like taktouka (roasted pepper and tomato salad) are served with a generous portion of burrata, while cheese briouates (puff pastries) are dressed up with mint, honey, and sesame seeds. Even the restaurant’s design pays tribute to Lyazidi and Sebbagh’s experiences abroad.

“We want people who eat here to feel like they’re in our house rather than being served at a restaurant.” warm, shared experience.” Lyazidi echoes that sentiment. “We’re not interested in being a trendy place that’s all about beautiful people and bling-bling,” he said. “We want people who eat here to feel like they’re in our house rather than being served at a restaurant. And we want the people who work here to want to come to work. We treat them like partners, not like they’re our staff.” He added that most of L’mida’s employees, like him and Sebbagh, are in their thirties. “We play football together when we’re not working,” he said. L’mida’s menu reflects that style of approachability. It’s influenced by the Moroccan food that Lyazidi and Sebbagh ate growing up, as well as their travels around the world. Both studied and worked in France for several years, and have explored much of Europe and Asia. To create their unique menu, the duo brought in Moroccan-born, Belgian-raised chef

L’mida is decorated in neutrals and lush green tones, and looks like a cafe you’d stumble across in Bali - which happens to be one of their favorite travel destinations. Lyazidi and Sebbagh see themselves opening a concept store and more restaurants around the world in the coming years. Lyazidi is eager to start a new cafe in Bali, while Sebbagh wants to open one in Portugal. But both are confident that they’re exactly where they need to be right now to make their dreams come true. “Morocco is changing. It’s becoming more international and we’re part of a new generation of Moroccans that are making that happen,” Sebbagh said. “Morocco is the future. Africa is the future.” @lmidamarrakech • @erikaexplores Turn the page for an exclusive L’mida recipe!

Burrata & Taktouka Mechouia

Burrata & Taktouka Mechouia Serves 4 INGREDIENTS // 2 large peppers (red or yellow) // 3 tablespoons olive oil // 4 large tomatoes // 1 teaspoon finely chopped garlic, about 2 cloves // 4 tablespoons mixture of chopped parsley & coriander // 1 teaspoon paprika // ½ teaspoon cumin // ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste // ½ teaspoon caster sugar // 2 burrata // 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts

PARSLEY OIL // 60ml olive oil // ½ teaspoon dried parsley // Pinch of salt

METHOD // Preheat a grill or griddle pan until it’s really hot. // Place the peppers on the grill and turn every 3 to 4 minutes until each side is scorched and tender. Remove the peppers from the grill and set aside to cool. // Meanwhile, peel, deseed, and roughly chop the tomatoes. // Once the peppers have cooled down, peel, deseed and chop into approx 1.5 cm pieces. // In a large casserole dish or a deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat and add the chopped tomatoes, garlic, spices, herbs, salt and sugar. Cover with a lid for 10 to 15 minutes until the tomatoes have softened. Stir occasionally. // Add the chopped peppers and mix all the ingredients together. Leave to simmer gently for 10 minutes with the lid off until all the liquid evaporates. // To serve, arrange a portion of taktouka (the pepper, tomato mixture) on a shallow plate and place the burrata on top. Drizzle with parsley oil and toasted pine nuts. Photograph @pinkpalmstudio

“The hand which scoops up the water is the first vessel. The fingers of both intertwined are the first basket.” – Elias Canetti

Model Khaoula El Mekkawi

Our ancestors were genius in their creativity and wise in their relationship with the natural world. Both functional and beautiful, the basket was a perfect solution to storage and the transportation of goods, and the harvesting of fibres from the surrounding landscape to form a vessel remains as relevant today. At Bohemia, our love for baskets knows no bounds. We work with artisans across Morocco to curate a wide range of designs from the reed storage baskets of Essaouira and the traditional palm leaf shoppers of the north, to the coiled pots in brightly coloured wools from the Saharan south. THe humble basket has a timeless appeal and is a fine example of slow fashion. An age-old craft still carried out by artisan communities across the globe, basket weaving provides for their own needs and is an important source of additional income. A well-cared for basket will last for years, decomposing back to the earth at the end of its life; undeniably a more eco-friendly and elegant alternative to the dreaded plastic bag.

BEHIND EVERY PRODUCT we make lies a story; a tale of the people we meet, the evolution of an idea from paper to physical reality, and the magic of the hands that bring our designs to life. A delicious kind of alchemy arises when we come together to create; a mind full of ideas, an abundance of natural materials and generations of crafting know-how combine to make real what was once ethereal. The fantastical process of collaboration has been more evident than ever over the past year of lockdowns and travel bans. We have been able to keep working with the artisans of Morocco thanks to deep friendships and connections forged over many years and we are truly grateful for this. Our latest project has seen us partnering with Abdel and his team of leathersmiths to handcraft our first collection of leather shoes. It is thanks to Nicole Belli, who meticulously supervised the project on the ground in Marrakech, and to Houssain Belabbes and Ali Ait Karroum, who expertly documented the process through film and photography, that we can bring these leather mules to you and share the visual story behind their making.

Model Soukaina Maousse

creatives

The making of our new range of leather footwear has been beautifully documented for us by Marrakech based creatives Houssain Belabbes and Ali Ait Karroum. We love to share the stories of the people we meet and friends we make on this journey, and Houssain and Ali bring such skill and passion to their photography and filmmaking that we thought we’d share their stories with you.

ALI AIT KARROUM grew up in Ourika, a valley in the foothills of the High Atlas mountains about an hours drive from Marrakech, and ‘one of the most beautiful parts of Morocco’ states Ali of his birthplace. ‘I have always loved nature. Living in a place of brilliant contrasting colours and cultural vibrancy, I’ve developed a particular point of view. Through my work, I can share that point of view with the world.’

When did you first pick up a camera? The first time I held a camera was in 2013, a friend’s amateur DSLR. He was taking pictures at an educational event and invited me along. I was overwhelmed at first, how could I ever learn to work a device with so many settings? That initial feeling gave way to curiosity, and I’ve been a student of photography ever since.

well-structured shot compositions. My workplace attracted international photographers for tours, and I got to show my work to professionals. Many were encouraging and enthusiastic for me to continue, and one of them changed my life forever; Patrick, a French guy, was convinced of my potential and gave me my first set of equipment. From that moment, I’ve never looked back.

Is your interest in photography and filmmaking something you have always pursued? I always wanted to try photography, but a camera was out of my financial capacity, so I started with mobile photography while working in tourism. I honed my craft, learning how to capture the light and create

What do you dream of? I dream of helping other young Moroccan creatives carve a place in the industry and have their voices heard internationally in creative markets beyond the traditional handicrafts the country is renowned for.

@the__alii

HOUSSAIN BELABBES was born and raised in Marrakech where he attended the local public school. Houssain’s own parents never went to school, and the freedom he had to choose his own career path saw him take more than 40 training programmes both at home and abroad. With a linguistics degree in English Studies and a stint as a Moroccan Ambassador on a diplomatic mission in London behind him, in 2016 Houssain began his professional career in photography and filmmaking and now runs his own creative agency in Marrakech.

When did you first pick up a camera? Picking up a camera for the first time was really at a young age for me, I think I was 10 years old with some of my friends. We used to work in small jobs, selling bags, or books, or recycling trash. With the money we collected we would buy disposable cameras to take photos of ourselves, and then we would print them. We only had 28 photos. What do you love about photography and filmmaking? For me each project, personal or professional, is like a baby; I dream about it, I work on it to make it grow and bring it to life, and that always gives me a feeling of satisfaction. But, what I love most about what I do is the fact that I lose track of time whenever I am doing it. It is the feeling of being free. Is your interest in photography and filmmaking something you have always pursued? Creating visuals is something I started at a really early age, I wanted to be heard in my small community and that was my key to opening that door. I started back

in the days of forums and online blogs (2006). Then as social media platforms grew, my passion grew with them. It was always a big challenge to have a voice, so I found that creating visuals was my key to opening the door into this complicated algorithm.

Who inspires you in your life and work? My first inspiration is my dad. He made a huge change in his life in order to provide us with more opportunities, so in all areas of my life I try to make a difference to my surroundings, not only in photography or filmmaking, but in other aspects of life too. What do you think the future holds for young creatives in Morocco? Morocco is a diverse country with different cultures, and I think that’s a huge source of inspiration for the young creatives in Morocco. It is the land of opportunity in some fields.

@ussain.belabbes

Words Jenny Lockton

BOHEMIAN TRAVELLERS Always taking the road less travelled, we curate mindful journeys deeply rooted in the craft culture and landscape of Morocco. Over many years of exploring the country and working with artisan communities, we have gained a wealth of knowledge which we delight in sharing. In partnership with local friends and experts we guide ethical trips that focus on connecting conscious travellers with the authentic Morocco. Photograph @the__alii

bohemiantravellers.com @bohemiantravellers

‘When you choose to elope in Morocco, you’re choosing to elope in the most magical place in the world.’ Our bohemian love affair with Morocco began when we first stepped foot on her soil 40 years ago, and ever since then it has been our mission to share this love. If Morocco is calling your name, then what better way to celebrate the day of your dreams by planning your wedding here. We work in conjunction with Siham of La Perle and Maria of Party Maroc, along with Corey Lynn Tucker Photography, to design the trip of a lifetime, whether it be an intimate desert elopement or a fabulous kasbah extravaganza. La Perle Events and Party Maroc combine their extensive experience and little black book of contacts to plan authentic, bespoke weddings and parties in Marrakech and beyond. The breathtaking sights, sounds and scents of this magical city, and the attention to detail of our team will ensure your day is styled to perfection. @laperlevents_marrakech 28

@bohemiantravellers

@partymaroc_marrakech

Corey is a highly talented destination elopement photographer dedicated to capturing the love stories of her couples on camera, wherever the adventure takes them!

@coreylynntucker

SHOPPING LIDDED POTS

These dinky walnut wood pots are ideal for storing precious keepsakes. Handmade for Bohemia by skilled artisans in the Marrakech region of Morocco. From £19

WALNUT WOOD BOWLS

From miniature spice bowls to traditional soup bowls, walnut wood brings a natural warmth to the table. With a rich grain varying in tone from light to dark, each bowl is unique and bears the character of the artisan who made it by hand. From £10

HONEY DIPPERS

The precision of both hand and eye as the lathe spins and the craftsmen transform blocks of wood into these exquisite honey dippers is a marvel to observe. Drip and drizzle honey with ease, a perfect gift for foodies. £6.50

bohemia at home

MOROCCAN POUFFES

Forever a Bohemia favourite, our leather pouffes are entirely handcrafted in a small Marrakech atelier. Choose from a range of designs in our signature contemporary colour palette. From £78

HAMMAM TOWELS

A versatile travel companion, our popular hammam towels are perfect for the beach or poolside, and equally at home as a table covering or throw. Woven in Turkey on traditional looms using natural cotton, linen and silk fibres, we always have room in our case for these beautiful textiles. From £26

Shop online: bohemiadesign.com

The above painting by Regragui Bouslai (b.1963) was purchased by Bohemia from Galerie Siniya28 with all proceeds going to The Marrakech Artisan Fund.

Regragui Bouslai is a self-taught artist and a native of the Essaouira region on Morocco’s dramatic Atlantic coast. A poetic and intuitive visual storyteller, Bouslai’s dream-like work is inspired by Morocco’s oral tradition and the pastoral landscape of olive and argan trees, wildflowers, and animals that surround him.

In conversation with... // Galerie Siniya28 // Marrakech, Morocco 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 freeflowing 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. Words Jenny Lockton

What first inspired you to open Galerie Siniya28? Do you have a favourite artist and what is it that touches In 2007 my father and I founded Galerie Tindouf, you about their work? My all-time favourite artist a contemporary art space representing established has to be Lalla Essaydi. Through the medium and mature artists such as Lalla Essaydi (b.1956) of photography she criticizes the Orientalist and Claudio Bravo (1936-2011). After the wonderful male gaze and empowers Arab women to resist success of Galerie Tindouf, I decided to create objectification and stereotypes. What I also love Galerie Siniya28 in 2016 as a about Lalla’s work is her new younger space dedicated aesthetic and the poetry of I believe Morocco is to emerging artists. her language that carries an incredibly rich and a strong and powerful inspiring place for young statement. How did your interest in art and emerging creatives. develop? My interest in art developed really early on Have you found any particular as I grew up in a family passionate about art and challenges to being a woman-owned and run business in craft. My grandfather was known for having one Morocco or internationally? I don’t identify with any of the most reputable bazaars in Tangier and my of the challenges of being a woman in the art world, father worked in the world of antiques, so my in Morocco or internationally. I think the field of art childhood home was filled with local treasures and creativity is in perfect harmony with the female and artifacts from all corners of the globe. I later being. went on to study History of Art and Architecture in London, and I was so grateful to have been able to What do you dream of? I dream of a more ‘real’ and pursue this familial passion on a deeper and more authentic world, where the virtual world does not academic level. overpower mankind, and where love and peace prevails. Who and what most inspires you in your life and work? What inspires me the most in my life and work is What do you think the future holds for young and my family. I am blessed to work closely with my emerging creatives in Morocco? It’s in a strategic father in the arts, and my mother has always been geographical location, and its energy and cultural my number one supporter in pursuing different heritage make Morocco a goldmine for future routes and not being afraid to push boundaries. talent.

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G E T I N TO U C H General Enquiries info@bohemiadesign.co.uk Trade Enquiries wholesale@bohemiadesign.co.uk Follow Us @bohemiadesign

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