Paintings influenced by the power of identity
- Anaëlle is inspired by various scenes and women from northern Morocco
- She began her practice by sketching the streets, faces and light around her
- She practises several crafts as a way to explore her dual cultural identity
Anaëlle Myriam Chaaib, known as Myriam au Citron, creates illustrations that draw on the quiet poetry of northern Morocco – its kitchens, village markets, landscapes and the strength of its women. Based in Tangier, Anaëlle turned to drawing as a way to explore her dual French and Moroccan identity after training in business and pastry arts. She also gives her ideas a tactile life through ceramics. "I bring vibrant scenes to life on paper, clay and fabric. I infuse my creations with tenderness and humour to tell stories that bridge cultures and generations," she explains. Anaëlle's work has been exhibited in galleries and fairs from Casablanca to London.
Discover her work
INTERVIEW
I have been drawing since I was a child, but never had any formal training. In 2022, in Chefchaouen, my practice started to take shape. I started sketching the streets, faces and light around me. It was not planned, but it felt essential. Over time, what was begun as a hobby transformed into a way of life.
I aim to show a softer, more nuanced image of the Moroccan culture. I also want to shed light on women’s invisible labour and quiet power. Drawing can carry meaning simply, without preaching.
They are inspired by my mother, my sister and women I have met in northern Morocco – strong, discreet and often dreamy. I show them doing everyday things that, in my eyes, are a form of quiet poetry.
My process starts on paper. Then, I give my ideas a tactile life through ceramics, textiles or notebooks. I trained in ceramics in France, and now I have a studio in Tangier. Each piece tells a little story – sometimes playful, sometimes serious but always with a touch of emotion.
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