With delicate brush movements, Tunisian artist Zohra Zarougui sprinkles bright-colored patterns in a pan of oily water, creating unique pieces using the little-known techniques of the art of marbling, according to Reuters.
Popular in Turkey and parts of Central Asia, marbling or 'Ebru' is an ancient technique in which the artist "paints on water", using dyes, an oily water-based solution, and other tools. The swirly patterns are then transferred onto a sheet of paper, canvas or cloth dipped in the water.
About her connection with the old Arabic cities from where she inspires her creative works, artist and Ebru researcher Zohra Zarougui said: "It is an existential and philosophic one that mixes art and humanity. Old cities are masterpieces that give the artist the inspirational energy he needs to create."
Zarougui studied Ebru art abroad, and now practices it in her kitchen, creating pieces inspired by distinct patterns of old cities in the Arab world.
"It takes years of research to be able to bring out the history of this art and its techniques and methods. The experience lasted for several years outside the country, with a lot of courage and sacrifice," she added.
"This art form is not taught in Tunisia, so I traveled abroad, learned it, and had a master's degree in it. Then, I returned to Tunisia after years of research and experiments," she noted.
Zarougui hopes to shed light on this art's rare beauty and inspire others to learn it. The young artist displays her work in various galleries, and sometimes gives classes teaching Ebru techniques.
