designed as a centerpiece for the ‘contemporary morocco’ exhibit in paris, france, oualalou + choi erected a pelted-covered installation titled flij. the structure serves as a symbol and visitor center to the exhibit, displaying works from moroccan artisans as well as a cafe, boutique, and performance area to host scheduled events. a combination of traditional materials and construction methods applied to modern technological advances, the pavilion exemplifies its historic roots in a traditional tent-like structure.

flij_oualalouandchoi
the installation serves as a central point and iconic figure in the exhibit
image © luc boegly (also first image)

 

 

the studio coordinated over 650 m2 of camel and goat wool were woven by female cooperatives in the saharan desert, transported and installed onto a steel substructure that forms six peaks. the form pays homage to the nomadic lifestyle of southern morocco where animal hides were used as canvases around temporary structures.

flij_oualalouandchoi
image © luc boegly

flij_oualalouandchoi
the irregularity of the quilted hides creates streaks of color in the
image © luc boegly

flij_oualalouandchoi
the organic nature of the structure contrasts the orthogonal facade of the central building behind
image © luc boegly

flij_oualalouandchoi
image © luc boegly

flij_oualalouandchoi
the tent structure contains a cafe, gallery space, and performance area
image © luc boegly

flij_oualalouandchoi
image © luc boegly

flij_oualalouandchoi
image © luc boegly

flij_oualalouandchoi
the canvas is applied in strips, layering over one another to shed water effectively
image © luc boegly

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