Posted on March 14, 2019November 29, 2019Tags , , , , , ,

Artist Spotlight: Asmâa Hamzaoui

It is always an accomplishment to be the first one to do something. Usually this requires a lot of character, courage, and creativity.  Asmâa Hamzaoui embodies these traits. She is the first and only woman Gnawa master in the world. She also leads the only all women’s Gnawa group in existence.  I discovered her on instagram and was immediately captivated by this video: Gnawa (also spelled Gnaoua) music is indigenous to Morocco. It is the product of West African rhythms … Continue reading “Artist Spotlight: Asmâa Hamzaoui”

Posted on March 9, 2019November 29, 2019Tags , , , , , , , , ,

Artist Spotlight: Norman McLaren

Can you see sounds? Some people can! Synesthesia is a condition where one sensory pathway directly affects another. The most well-known example may be the ability to see colors and other visuals when hearing sounds. Norman McLaren had this condition. He was also one of the most influential filmmakers of the 20th century.  McLaren is best known for his early experimental films, where he produced all images and sounds solely by drawing directly on film with pen. Abstract shapes dance … Continue reading “Artist Spotlight: Norman McLaren”