The Cultural Colors of Morocco is the result of a research project carried out by the cultural company Innovarte about the historical origin and use of color in Morocco. The exhibition consists of a set of information panels in which text and image document how color is extracted, made present and applied in landscapes, architecture and handicrafts throughout the country. The texts combine empirical data and personal reflections on the extraction, combination and use of color in Morocco. The photographs which accompany these writings show the visitor some of the buildings, landscapes, festivals, individuals, interiors, clothing and pieces of jewelry that Innovarte has analyzed as case studies in articulating its research.

The exhibition is divided into five sections. The first, devoted to Colors, takes a fresh look at Morocco’s color palette, examining the methods for obtaining pigments, their application and the presence of each tone on different items. Based upon Johannes Itten’s theories of color, Innovarte shares its own Moroccan color wheel in the chapter about Color Harmonies classified into opposition, identity and neighborhood. In the Crafts section, some of the applications of color on textiles, ceramics, metal and wood pieces are included. Within the Folklore section, the colors which make up the country’s intangible heritage are traced, including festivals, markets and weddings. Last of all, on Color Trails, they draw a series of chromatic journeys through Morocco which allow visitors to tour the cities along the Atlantic coast, in the Rif region and through the fortresses of the south, following the predominant color in each region.

The exhibition can be seen at Casa Árabe’s headquarters in Madrid until May 21, 2023.