The Fragile Beauty of Morocco
Photographer: Michela D'Onofrio
Exhibit Title: The Fragile Beauty of Morocco
Location: Morocco
My artwork is the result of an adventure in Morocco's High Atlas to uncover a forgotten kasbah I stumbled upon by chance on Google Maps. Abandoned by tourist routes and unknown even to the local Berber guide who accompanied me, this once-majestic palace stood hidden in a tiny, godforsaken village still struggling to recover from the devastation of the recent earthquake.
During my visit, I was joined by a local villager—an elderly Berber man dressed in elegant traditional attire, despite living in a humble clay hut nearby. Together, we explored the ruins, their rich history shining through the intricate carvings and grand architecture, now crumbling under years of neglect and the earthquake’s aftermath.
Through my work, I aim to capture the duality of fascination and sorrow: the enduring beauty of these architectural treasures and the profound sense of loss for their current state. Once magnificent palaces, these kasbahs are now crumbling into ruins, left forgotten by both institutions and tourism. I hope to inspire viewers to reflect on the fragility of cultural heritage, encouraging rediscovery and preservation before it is lost to time.
Michela D’Onofrio is an emerging photographer living in Switzerland and originally from Rome.For over a decade, she has pursued photography with passion and curiosity, learning through hands-on experience and formal courses that have fueled her creativity and vision. What began as a hobby has evolved into a lifelong dedication and a true calling.
Driven by a deep love for life, she infuses herjoie de vivre into every photograph. Her journey as a photographer is one of never-ending growth and discovery, where she strives to capture the emotion and wonder of the world around her. Photography is a reflection of her passion for seeing the extraordinary in the everyday, and she is committed to sharing beauty and emotions through her work.
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