An interview with Samy Snoussi: On symbols, space, and the power of artistic transmission

Samy Snoussi: Bridging Cultures Through Art and Symbolism

An artist's journey from dyslexia to universal language, exploring themes of identity, memory, and connection.

Samy Snoussi, a 32-year-old artist born in Toulouse and raised in Casablanca, has carved a unique space for himself in the contemporary art world. His work, spanning painting, sculpture, and public installations, delves into profound themes of identity, memory, and invisible connections.

Snoussi's artistic practice is uniquely informed by his background. He holds a master's degree in urban design from Montreal, where he learned to see space differently. This understanding informs the symbolic language he uses to create art that transcends cultural boundaries.

"Art is how I connect with the world — how I process the visible and the invisible. It’s not just something I do; it’s a way of being." - Samy Snoussi

In an exclusive interview, Snoussi opens up about his artistic journey, sharing insights into his creative process, the impact of dyslexia on his work, and the importance of public art in fostering dialogue.

Overcoming Dyslexia: A Language Born From Resistance

Snoussi has been open about his experience with dyslexia. As a child, he struggled with conventional forms of expression. "My hand and body rejected conventional forms," he explains. "It was frustrating, I couldn’t express myself in the expected ways."

But this initial challenge became a catalyst for Snoussi's unique artistic language. He learned to listen to his own rhythm, allowing his hand to write freely in a language of its own.

"My symbols aren’t learned; they’re remembered or invented in response to that resistance." - Samy Snoussi

Public Art: Shifting the Energy of a City

Snoussi's work transcends the confines of galleries and museums, finding its place in public spaces. He believes that art should be accessible to everyone, fostering dialogue and enriching urban environments.

"Public art can shift the energy of a city," he states. "It can provoke pride, memory, and dialogue."

His recent projects include a sculpture in Rabat and a monumental piece for the Mohammed VI Tower, showcasing his commitment to transforming public spaces into canvases for reflection and connection.

A Future Filled with Collaboration and Dialogue

Looking ahead, Snoussi is drawn to collaborative projects, particularly those that bridge contemporary art with traditional Moroccan crafts. He aims to create respectful dialogues between artistic expressions across generations and cultures.

"I want to create respectful collaborations between contemporary art and ancestral techniques," he shares. "It’s not about appropriation, it’s about dialogue."

Snoussi's journey exemplifies the power of art to transcend limitations, connect people across cultures, and spark meaningful conversations about identity, memory, and the human experience.