Who is Taher Jaoui?

Taher Jaoui is a Tunisian-born contemporary artist, recognized for his dynamic abstract compositions that blend vibrant colors, geometric shapes, and elements of street art, graffiti, and mathematical structures. Born in 1978 in Tunis, Tunisia, he graduated from the Sorbonne University in Paris in 2007. Initially pursuing a career in sciences, Jaoui transitioned to the art world in 2013, starting with collages made from old photographs. He currently resides and works in Madrid, Spain.

What defines his artistic style?

Jaoui’s work is characterized by rich assemblages of layered forms, expressive gestures, and mathematical signs and formulas. He employs a variety of mediums, including spray paint, charcoal, chalk, oils, and acrylics on raw canvas, creating textured surfaces that capture the physical energy invested in each piece. His creative process is spontaneous, involving a dynamic interaction where perspective and orientation continuously change until all elements are balanced.

Where has his work been exhibited?

Taher Jaoui’s artworks have been showcased in numerous solo and group exhibitions across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the United States. Notable exhibitions include solo shows at Galerie Saltiel in Paris, LT Gallery in Beirut, Maune Contemporary in Atlanta, and Jason Shin Gallery in Seoul. His works are part of many private and public collections worldwide.

What are his major influences?

Jaoui’s artistic practice is influenced by African primitive art, graffiti, glitch art, the COBRA movement, and the philosophy and attitude of post-war Abstract Expressionism. These diverse inspirations converge in his work, resulting in a unique fusion of spontaneity and structure that reflects his background in computer science and mathematics.

How does he approach his creative process?

Jaoui compares his creative process to a dance routine with a familiar partner, emphasizing the importance of spontaneity and familiarity with materials. He layers various mediums to construct raw textures, directly capturing the physical energy put into each piece. This method allows him to convey his thoughts, emotions, and visions, with the finished work serving as a documentation of the process.

What themes does his art explore?

His art explores themes of intuition and reason, spontaneity and structure, reflecting a balance between free expression and calculated composition. The incorporation of mathematical signs and formulas alongside expressive gestures suggests a dialogue between his scientific background and artistic pursuits.

Through his vibrant and dynamic compositions, Taher Jaoui continues to push the boundaries of abstract art, engaging viewers in a visual dialogue that bridges the gap between spontaneity and structure.