Diamonds in the Rough

At the weekend I was asked to give a presentation on my work and experiences as a fashion student.The audience was made up of students, teachers, industry and hobbyists from the school and surrounding areas. This was again another challenge this trip has provided me to overcome. I have never thought of myself as a good public speaker but this actually went really well which was such a confidence boost. It also felt good to be able to do something good for the school and as they have been so accommodating to host me for my stay and give me office and studio space.

               

I travelled with Joseph to Rabat to stay with Sylvie Billaudeau and her family in their villa by the sea which showed me a completely new side to Morocco. In comparison to Casablanca my, even though very short, experiences of Rabat have given me the impression that it is a more peaceful place however, my judgement only comes from the three markets and the train station that I visited there. The coast reminded me of a place in Devon where we take our family holiday every year so I felt very comforted as soon as the sea came into view. Here there is a huge fish trade, there are fishermen across the entire coast line who sell their catches at market or even on the side of the road still on the hook.

We visited two markets while in Rabat, the first was similar to what I had experienced in Casablanca, very traditional and very busy. You have to completely let go of any 'British politeness' and stand your ground against invasion of personal space and chance to keep with the group your in. The second that we visited was a Moroccan equivalent of a flea market set out in trademark narrow streets with the occasional motorbike trying to push its way through the crowd. Amongst all the used artefacts we came across two old Singer and Elena sewing machines, I think I would have taken the time to haggle one of these to a good price if only my luggage allowance would have also agreed with the purchase.

This Market, like many I have seen, is about finding the diamond in the rough, a little like shopping a TK Maxx but the complete opposite in culture, tradition and atmosphere. The fabric shops here are extensive! Every inch of available space is dedicated to showing as much variety of fabric as possible. In some shops owner's didn't care if you physically climbed all over their stock to reach the piece you had your eye on. My collection swatch book has grown since my visit so it have been a very productive yet relaxing trip.