Anaëlle Myriam Chaaib

Myriam Au Citron

Illustrator

©Chadia Talha

©Thomas Levy

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.

Interview

©Chadia Talha

What led you to illustration?: 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.
What do you hope people take from your work?: 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.
Who are the women in your drawings?: 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.
How do your drawings evolve into objects?: 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.

Anaëlle Myriam Chaaib is a rising star: she began her career in 2021