Karima El Fillali is currently our artist in residence, deeply immersed in research that centers around her Moroccan heritage. Her exploration delves into the realms of traditional and spiritual movements within the context of cultural events. Her primary aim is to discern effective methods of integrating this heritage into her artistic practice, specifically emphasizing stage performance and physical expression.
Karima el Fillali (1987) is a singer and music writer known for her ethereal voice, enigmatic stage presence and profoundly moving live performances. Born to a Dutch mother and a Moroccan father, she started her artistic career in the Netherlands. During her travels to Morocco, she became fascinated by her homeland’s spiritual musical traditions.
It was here that she began to study Arabic, and engulf herself in everything from gnawa to lyrical Arabic singing techniques. When she finally found a teacher – a grandmaster and Sufi singer – she dedicated herself to studying the art of tarab: music that brings the listener to a state of ecstasy and into an experience of something bigger than oneself.
After returning to the Netherlands she incorporated these influences and soon became known for her authentic homages to Oum Kalthoum – but also for more experimental work, often characterized by cultural influences from Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. She sings with small intimate ensembles as well as symphony orchestra’s. Her work can be found in the fields of fashion, cinema, ceremony, storytelling and contemporary dance.
photography by Esma Alouet