Monsieur Omar is a Moroccan artisan who collaborates with ABURY and is the creator of the ABURY Berber Collection. His fingers work with unparalleled precision as they weave leather and silk thread together to create the distinctive pieces of the ABURY Berber Collection. Every stitch and movement reflects a tradition passed down through generations and a dedication to craftsmanship that is not only practical but pure art.
The Guardian of Traditional Moroccan Craft
Monsieur Omar, who has passed on the legacy of Moroccan craftsmanship through generations of his family, lives and breathes this art form. In his small family workshop in Marrakech, he passionately preserves the traditions handed down by his ancestors. His pride is evident in each exquisite embroidery that adorns his creations, and in the knowledge that his work will enable his son to attend a good school and pursue his own dreams.
It is always fascinating to watch Monsieur Omar at work - the way he shapes the leather, as if it comes to life under his hands. His craft is a tribute to Moroccan craftsmanship and the people who practice it with such heart.
Monsieur Omar in Conversation: On Craft, Family, and Dreams
Start by tagging yourself with three words.
Confidence, Love/Dedication, Work.
We believe that hands tell stories. Being a Moroccan artisan, your hands surely do, too. What do they tell about you?
My hands tell many stories. One story is how I learned my metier. I went to school and in the afternoon I watched my father always working. And I learned the work that my hand do today just by watching - I never had a teacher or went to a embroidery training. I love the work.
What is the last thing you created with your hands?
The last thing I did is a bag for my wife!
If you could choose, what would you like to be able to do with your hands?
I would love to build a house out of leather.
Looking back on everything you’ve done in your life, what is the one thing you are proudest of?
I am really proud of my children!
What makes Morocco special? What do you love about the Moroccan culture?
The special thing about Morocco is the variety and quality of craftsmanship!
How would you describe the tastes of Morocco and what is your favourite?
My favorite taste is the Couscous with vegetables and meat - I love it since I am a child - it is the most traditional dish, but I love it.
According to some craftspeople, every artisan has their own craft language. How would you describe yours?
I am not doing what the others do. Many artisans here just copy. What I try is always to make the difference - to go one step further.
What do you like most about being an artisan working for ABURY?
ABURY gave me a lot already. First I love that through my work with ABURY I can help the poor people in Morocco. I was taught the women in the village embroidery as well and I see the children going to school. And through the work with the designers I learned and learn a lot. I would have never done ipad bags, clutches or wallets. This is exciting to learn something new.
© All photos via ABURY
If you could go anywhere in the world where would that be and why?
Germany - obviously :)
Apart from practicing your craft, what else do you like to do?
I love football and the Morrocan national football team. In fact, I play myself - and my favourite player is Ronaldo. I have already embroidered a bag for the mother of Ronaldo.
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