Swiss-Moroccan artist Zineb Mezzour (Instagram) trained in computer science before unveiling her talents as a multidisciplinary artist in 2021. Mezzour’s art immerses us in a mysterious world where nature’s essence reigns. Inspired by water, she unveils microscopic wonders, symbolising life’s creative force through ink and dendritic cells. Fascinated by nature’s fractal beauty, she invites us to explore the present moment’s power through her photography, ink drawings, and sculptures, prompting a deeper reflection on our intrinsic bond with the natural world and its elements.
Zineb Mezzour, welcome. Coming from a background in computer science, what prompted you to pursue a career in art? How do you think your background informs your artistic approach?
My journey into art began unexpectedly during a moment of solitude, when I felt a surge of emotions that needed expression. Initially, this took the form of poetry, but soon evolved into visual explorations with water and blue ink. My entry into the art world was entirely organic; becoming an artist was never a premeditated goal, but rather a path that unfolded as I followed my instincts, seeking comfort for my own spiritual and mental well-being. Although my background in science seemed at odds with my creative pursuits at first, everything fell into place when I discovered the mathematical concept of fractals. It not only resonated with my scientific training, but also deepened my artistic expression, bridging two seemingly disparate worlds.
How do you integrate fractal structures into your art, and what meaning do they hold as divine symbols and conduits to the power of the present moment?
Fractals fascinate me because they are a fundamental pattern of our universe, from the branching of trees to the structure of our neurons. In my process, I provoke fractal patterns on various materials, capturing the instant where nature itself paints these patterns before my eyes. This moment is when I feel a profound connection to the present—a divine experience that encapsulates the essence of all living things. In these moments, time ceases to exist. The nostalgia of the past and the projections of the future dissolve, leaving only the pure experience of the now.
Could you describe your artistic process, particularly your technique of drawing invisible shapes in water and unveiling them with ink? How do you see this process reflecting the themes of your work?
My artistic process thrives on spontaneity and experimentation. As I shape the contours with my brush soaked with water, the movement of ink within these bounds remains beyond my control. Each piece emerges, uniquely beautiful, mirroring the unpredictable beauty of life itself. This method reflects a deeper philosophy: just as we can set the broader strokes of our lives, much of what happens within those outlines is shaped by forces beyond our control. Embracing this unpredictability is akin to embracing life itself, with all its surprises. It’s about letting go of our preconceptions and confidently trusting the flow of life.
Your artistic practice spans various mediums, including photography, ink on paper, and sculpture. How do you decide which medium to use for a particular project, and what do you aim to achieve through each medium?
Whether it’s through photography, ink on paper, or sculpture, each medium offers a unique lens on the same fundamental truths of nature’s design. My role is to act as a mediator, facilitating a creative dialogue between nature’s inherent artistry and various mediums. The core of my work is about discovering processes that spark this interaction. It’s exhilarating to find the right chemical reaction that allows the magic of creation to unfold. For me, each medium is a new realm of exploration, offering endless possibilities to discover and create.
Your use of the colour blue is striking in your art. Can you tell us more about why blue plays such a prominent role in your work?
Blue represents both the sky and the sea; it is a colour of depth and openness, embodying tranquillity and infinity. In my art, blue is more than a colour; it is a feeling—a reminder of the vastness above and below us, and a nod to the universal canvas that connects us all.
Marseille, where you are currently based, has a rich cultural and artistic heritage. How has living in this city influenced your artistic practice and the themes you explore in your work?
Marseille is renowned for its stunning sea views and seamless access to nature, which serve as endless sources of inspiration right at my doorstep. The city is also vibrant, with young creatives who boldly redefine career paths, often juggling multiple roles simultaneously, much like myself. This dynamic environment significantly boosts my motivation and creativity, making me feel more empowered.
How does your Swiss-Moroccan identity influence your art, considering that its themes resonate globally?
My Swiss-Moroccan heritage, coupled with several professional experiences across the globe, has deeply influenced my personal and spiritual journey. Living in countries like Ecuador and India significantly enriched my spiritual exploration through diverse experiences, enlightening readings, and meaningful encounters. Without realising it at the time, each of these experiences was laying the groundwork for my future in art. Each destination has left a distinct imprint on me, and it was during the pandemic—when travel ceased—that I had the opportunity to naturally reflect on these insights and channel them into my creative work.
How do you hope viewers will engage with and interpret your artworks? What message or feeling do you aim to evoke through your art?
My aspiration for my work is to inspire a deeper connection with nature and foster personal spiritual reflections, reminding us of the inherent perfection of nature and our fundamental place within it. Additionally, I like to think that my artworks serve as a gateway to initiate conversations and raise awareness about the concept of fractals, encouraging viewers to see the profound interconnectedness that fractals reveal in the natural world.
If you were to create an art installation in a completely unconventional space, where would it be?
I envision an immersive art installation in Marseille’s calanques, where participants can directly interact with natural fractal patterns around them and photograph them. This experience would be enhanced with few poetic texts and integrated sculptural and paper artworks along the path, aiming to create a profound engagement with nature and a collective artistic expression by the end of the journey.
Zineb Mezzour, thank you.
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