Mouna Moumni is a Moroccan architect and painter based in Tétouan, a city along the Martil Valley and one of Morocco’s two principal ports on the Mediterranean Sea. Growing up in this coastal town, she was influenced by its blend of Andalusian, Amazigh, and Moroccan traditions, which continue to shape her creative vision.

In this interview, she shares her journey as an artist and architect, how her heritage shapes her work, and her thoughts on navigating creative challenges, working across different mediums, and her hopes for future projects.

Could you share a bit about your background with us? Where are you from, and what is your journey as both an architect and an artist?

I was born and raised in Tetouan, a small coastal city in the north of Morocco. My father hails from the Middle Atlas, so I spent a significant part of my childhood immersed in my Amazigh roots. Growing up in Tetouan also meant being deeply influenced by Moresque and jebli traditions. This blend of cultures has shaped the person I am today; I am all of them, and I feel that I cannot fully separate one from the other.

From a young age, I was known somewhat as the artist in my family, as drawing and painting always came naturally to me. My parents were incredibly supportive, always providing me with art materials and encouragement to pursue my passion. Architecture came into my life somewhat unexpectedly. I never had a childhood dream of becoming an architect, but during my college entrance exams, I found that my art skills, along with other knowledge, helped me secure a place in the architecture programme. It was challenging at first, but my artistic background allowed me to excel in architecture school. Ultimately, entering the field of architecture brought me closer to art and played a crucial role in helping me advance.

You initially studied architecture, which is quite different from painting. What initiated your transition into art? And how has that evolution shaped your creative progress?

Studying architecture allowed me to better understand materials, shapes, light, and space. It transformed the way I think and perceive the world. The skills I gained in architecture have been invaluable to my work as an artist. I often reflect on how architecture has shaped my ability to think about composition, balance, and form in my art. Honestly, I don’t see them as separate; to me, architecture and painting both feed my creative hunger and my passion for colours and shapes. I cannot imagine one without the other—they are intrinsically linked in my work and personal journey.

We see an influence of traditional Moroccan ornamentation in your work. How do your roots in Moroccan culture inspire your art and inform your creative process?

As I mentioned before, I grew up immersed in the Moresque, Jebli, and Amazigh cultures, and this blend of traditions naturally influences my art. It’s something I do instinctively—these elements just feel right, and I believe my work is more complete with that touch. The rich and diverse Moroccan traditions offer endless inspiration, and I can draw from countless ideas just by reflecting on my childhood. The vibrant colours, the stories, and the people all hold a unique charm that I love to explore and share with the world through my art.

While your canvas work is well known, you’ve also done some mural projects. What draws you to these different mediums, and do you have a favorite to work with?

When I first began painting on canvas, I found myself constantly seeking new challenges. I was drawn to the excitement of tackling the next project, and I was always fascinated by working on larger scales. I once created a painting that measured 2 metres by 1.8 metres, and it was an incredibly rewarding experience. So, when the opportunity to work on a mural in Marrakesh arose, I eagerly embraced it, which opened up many new opportunities for me. Both mediums offer unique experiences and challenges, but I truly enjoy the larger-than-life impact that murals can have on a space and its viewers. That said, I wouldn’t say I have a favourite—I enjoy exploring both avenues equally.

In the age of social media, many artists face challenges like comparison and creative block. How do you navigate these pressures, and what do you do to protect your mental and creative well-being?

Social media can either be a source of inspiration or a place that breeds comparison and self doubt—it really depends on how an artist approaches it. Personally, I view art as something I do for myself first and foremost. As long as I create for the love of it and to fulfil my own purpose, I see it as a win, regardless of the reach or number of followers. Social media, for me, is simply a tool that allows me to share my passion with others. Whether my work reaches ten people or a thousand doesn’t matter as long as I have the privilege of continuing to create. I focus on the bigger picture—why artists create—and remind myself to use my platform in a way that reflects my love for art rather than seeking external validation.

Are there any particular projects, collaborations, or artists you dream of working with in the future, and why?

There are so many talented young Moroccan artists whose work I admire, and I hope that one day we can collaborate on something special. It’s difficult to name just one because there are so many incredible individuals, but in the future, I would love to complete and exhibit my own collection. I also hope to work on larger-scale projects that push my creative boundaries and continue to do what I love—exploring new possibilities in art.

What advice would you give to emerging artists who are interested in working with oils or acrylics?

My advice would be to thoroughly research the medium to understand which colors and tools suit your style best. In the beginning, it can feel overwhelming to gather so much paint and so many materials, so it’s important to take the time to experiment. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes; experimentation is key to finding the techniques that work for you. Consistent practice is essential in refining your skills and discovering your unique approach to the medium. The more you experiment, the more you’ll grow.

🌱Check Mouna’s works by clicking here.