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Hi friends! The Interiors by Jacquin blog has moved! Check out the fresh, new website at www.InteriorsbyJacquin.com!

Global Inspirations: Exploring the Culture and Beauty of Moroccan Rugs

Photo via Kelly Martin Interiors

Moroccan culture has captivated our attention with their exquisite rugs, but many people don't know much about the origins of their striking designs. Moroccan rugs were introduced into mid-century modern interiors in the 1920's, however these vivid rugs date back to the Paleolithic Era where the native people of Morocco hand-crafted them as an intrinsic part of their survival. 

Due to the harsh climates of North Africa, the Moroccan Berber tribes hand constructed the rugs to protect their families from either the frosty Atlas Mountains or the blazing Sahara Desert. Because of the different climates, tribes created various unique carpet styles. However, in most tribes the art of rug weaving was traditionally passed down from mother to daughter, and each design carried strong culturally symbolic meaning. 

The intricate geometric patterns portrayed themes of fertility, spirituality, and male protection; they also depicted the extraordinary stories of its weaver. Moroccan rugs are valued for their one-of-a-kind designs. There are over 45 different types of Moroccan rugs, but we'll be looking at three popular styles today: the Beni Ourain, the Azilal style, and the Boucherouite. 

Photo via MobMasker.

Beni Ourain: Nuts for Neutrals
Beni Ourain rugs come in neutral tones with dark geometric lines. These thick wool beauties can be incorporated into minimalist interiors, paired with bright furnishings, or intertwined with other lively prints. The options are endless! 

Photo via Semikah Textiles features rug style Silhouette.

Photo by Laure Joliet designed by Emily Henderson featuring home of Bri Emery.

 Azilal: Brilliantly Bold
Azilal rugs are known for their vibrant coloring and abstract patterns. The antique look of these textiles creates a beautiful contrast against modern interiors, and would also unite seamlessly with vintage decor. 

Product from Baba Souk.

Photo via My Domaine.

Boucherouite: Alluring Artistry
Boucherouite rugs were woven from different scraps of materials by Berber women, which resulted in exquisitely unique works of art. No two of these colorful creations are the same, a quality that is highly sought-after!

Photo from Lef Living.

Photo via Femina.

The true true beauty of the Moroccan rugs lie in the depth and meaning that each design carries. Every stitch holds a magnificent piece of history derived out of a rich and fascinating culture. Decorating with any of these elegant rugs will breathe life into countless interiors spaces. 

Dazzled by these Moroccan rug styles? Check out these vendors for your own little piece of Morocco:

Babasouk
Maroc Rug Company
Semikah Textiles
Illuminate Collective Rugs

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Artist Spotlight: Laurie Anne Gonzalez (Art + Design)

Meet artist Laurie Anne Gonzalez, a Southern artist with Alabama roots now living in Phoenix, Arizona with her husband Taylor. Laurie Anne's artwork showcases her exploration of fine art figure drawing as well as capturing her new Southwestern environment. Read on to learn more about Laurie Anne's artwork and to see her home tour!

'Lady with apple', gouache, Laurie Anne Gonzalez.

Jacquin: How would you describe your artwork? What are you currently working on?

Laurie Anne: If I had to put myself in a category for my style of art it would lean towards post-impressionism but my style can change drastically depending on what I am working on. Not only do I paint but I also design stationery which tends to be more meticulous and detailed artwork. Currently, I am working on exploring different mediums and sizes of artwork. I’m very excited to see what 2018 brings!

'Desert Outline', gouache, Laurie Anne Gonzalez. 

Jacquin: How has your artwork or your approach towards art evolved over the years?

Laurie Anne: My art has changed a lot over the years. Mainly in size. I used to paint very large oil paintings. I took about a 6 year break from painting and worked for Sweet Pea Designs stationery company and when I started my painting business back up, I starting working on smaller watercolor paintings.

'Lady with table', gouache, Laurie Anne Gonzalez.

Jacquin: How does your love of antiques & vintage come out in your style at home? Also, tell us about your vintage home decor shop, Laurel and Co.

Laurie Anne: Laurel and Co. was started by me and my friend Lauren out of a mutual love of Emily Henderson. My favorite part of our business is finding really good vintage art. When my husband and I go on trips, we try to find a piece of art from a thrift store or estate sale to remember our trip by.

'Dancing Ladies', gouaches, Laurie Anne Gonzalez.

Jacquin: What is your favorite hobby when you aren't creating artwork?

Laurie Anne: When I’m not working, you can find me hanging out with my husband and puppy or traveling! I love to travel and try to as much as possible. 

Jacquin: What artists are inspiring you right now?

Laurie Anne:  I’m currently digging Richard Claremont, Dylon Mierzwinski, and Kate Waddell.

Jacquin: What is on your creative bucket list? 

Laurie Anne: To teach online Art classes! That's one of the fun things I am going to explore this year!

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