Sofia Reddad

ytto

Textile printer

Omar Chennafi©Michelangelo Foundation

With artistic spark and a smile

Sofia is a multi-talented artisan
Her printed fabrics are designed to cheer up interiors
She uses the traditional technique of frame-printing

Sofia Reddad is a very happy and luminous person. What is striking when you meet her is, above all, her deep artistic streak. Sofia is an interior designer who trained in Lyon, France, and a professional Egyptian dance dancer. She performed on international stages before settling in Fez in 2017 to turn to craft. She still dances and offers Egyptian dance classes. In 2017, Sofia set up ytto, her studio, which is dedicated to hand frame-printed fabric used to make unique curtains, rare lampshades, and beautiful curtains. Light is at the centre of her work. She uses an antique hand technique based on wooden frames to print onto fabric with natural colours and inks. Each different colour she uses is made by a different frame. Her designs are contemporary and Sofia has an inviting workshop where she sells her products. Sofia also obtained a professional diploma as an upholsterer and she is able to restore chairs and sofas.

Interview

Omar Chennafi©Michelangelo Foundation

Omar Chennafi©Michelangelo Foundation

What made you change your activity from being a dancer to becoming a craftswoman?: I am a dancer and always will be. I felt the urge to use my hands, create, make. Besides, dance is a discipline which is still not very well understood in Morocco.
Why did you choose frame-printing?: Frame-printing involves your whole body. When you need to push and pull the heavy and large wooden frame it is quite physical. I guess that my past as a dancer has something to do with it. I love the result of frame-prints. It is very subtle and poetic. And it cannot be reproduced. Each piece is unique.
What are your sources of inspiration?: My sources of inspiration are my roots and the extraordinary, unique medina of Fez. I was raised in both cultures French and Moroccan. At home we would speak Arabic and French, eat steak frites and tagine, talk about every religion. I feel that was a very enriching education that allowed me to develop a very large range of references. The medina of Fez is the largest and the oldest medina in the world. It is classified by UNESCO. It is incredibly beautiful and to me an endless source of inspiration.
Can you tell us about your technique?: In a complex design each pattern or piece of pattern has its own frame. Each different colour uses a different frame too. I sometimes need 10 or 15 moves for one fabric. Frame-printing deeply mixes the ink with the fibres for a light and poetic result. I try to use organic colours and inks as much as possible.

Sofia Reddad is a rising star she began her career in 2017