El-Qibla is a sonic journey that resonates with the spiritual and sensory dimensions of sound. Rooted in Yara Mekawei’s field recordings from Sufi celebrations across Muslim African regions, the performance transforms these captured moments into intricate and immersive compositions. Through the interplay of traditional African instruments and the rich textures of these recordings, Mekawei creates a dynamic soundscape that orients the listener, much like the Qibla directs spiritual focus. Each sonic layer pulses with rhythmic vitality, guiding the audience toward a deep connection with the frequencies and vibrations of the moment. This performance embodies the idea of alignment – both sonic and metaphysical. The Qibla, as a central concept, symbolizes orientation and convergence, reflected in the way the compositions bring disparate sounds into harmony. By drawing from sacred rituals and everyday life, the work bridges ancient practices with modern sonic interpretations, creating a space for contemplation and resonance.

Yara Mekawei is a sonic sculptor and sound artist whose practice explores the intersection of sound, architecture, and urban landscapes. Her work transforms the rhythms of cities into immersive auditory experiences, where sonic narratives merge with visual form. Grounded in extensive research, Mekawei bridges antiquity and modernity, drawing from Sufi philosophy and »The Book of the Dead« to create compositions that resonate with memory, identity, and cultural heritage. Her work dissolves the boundaries between past, present, and sonic visions.

www.yaramekawei.com/
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