In a massive minimalist work, street artist Taquen covers the sides of houses, hospitals and street barriers, and reminds of strength and mutual understanding.
Taquen’s extensive work often portrays animals in motion, dynamic portraits and expressive hands. The importance of the movement reflects the core tenet of the artist’s practice as he visited mural work around the world.
Jaunt made his latest trip possible, a residence program that provides artists with the opportunity to travel to new destinations to inspire and connect. In February, Taquen went to Africa from his hometown of Madrid to compete in the Sahara Marathon.
The international event was founded in 2001 to advocate and demonstrate solidarity with the people of Salavi, held in close proximity to Tindouf, Algeria, a region that has been subjected to the conflict and humanitarian crisis in the Western Sahara Desert for decades.
When Spain abandoned its colonial rule over the Western Sahara in 1975, a power vacuum broke out between its neighbors, leading to the Madrid Agreement. The agreement seriously overlooked the voices of the forced displacement of indigenous Salavis and ended up in refugee camps that still lived in the Algerian desert about fifty years later.
The long-standing conflict has faded over the decades, but the Sahara Marathon continues to shed light on the resilience of the people of Salavi. “It’s a way to combine my greatest passion (art and sports) and contribute as much as possible to this unjust cause,” Taquen shared.
The artist’s screen print shows his experience at Tindouf. Quoting two gesture hands with bold lines, Taquen nods to henna cleverly, he references young Sahrawi women who play a vital role in desert society. “For example, in a marathon, they are the ones who encourage us the most,” the artist shared. “In the houses we live in, they take care of us, their families, etc. That’s a role model.”
The Arabic text is located below, suggesting a phrase that resonates with taquen. “The Salaves who live in the refugee camps call this place ‘the desert in the desert’, which means both geographically and metaphorically. I know I want to mention this in the artwork,” he said.
In addition to the limited edition print, Taquin has created a four-color dyed portrait that combines line drawings and simulated photography. Before leaving the camp, the artist chaired two art workshops for the children, sharing: “At the end of the day, these are boys and girls who don’t speak my language, but through painting we are able to express our expressions. It has taught me a lot about their ideas and hope for the future.”
The artist is currently completing the Graniti fresco residence in Sicily and has spent a busy year in a busy year including an exhibition in the summer of the Arts Festival and in the fall. Keep up with his work on Instagram and learn more on his website.
