Zahara S.

Meet the Artisan is an interview series where we dive deeper into the background of the Amazigh artisans who are the backbone of Salam Hello. Our mission is to preserve and share the tradition and symbolism—from our artisans’ hands to your home. Each interview explores their history with the weaving tradition, how and when they were taught and what they like to do beyond the loom.

Zahara belongs to the Women-Only Association that is located in the Village of Anzal, located about 30 km north of the popular weaving town, Tazenakht. The Anzal collective was founded in 2007 and is kept alive by women passing the craft down through the generations. 


When did you learn how to weave and who taught you?
I was born and raised in Anzal, where my mother and older sister introduced me to weaving at the age of 11. To this day, I find joy in weaving alongside my older sister, and our shared passion has spanned many years.

Recently, I passed on the art of weaving to my daughter, who has just finished her education. We now weave together, cherishing the time spent creating rugs as a family tradition that I hope will endure.


Do you have a favorite technique to weave?
I enjoy weaving all the techniques of Ait Ouaouzguite, the tribe I belong to. 


My favorite technique is the art of embroidery. The technique gives the rugs a special dimension and unique artistry.

I also really love weaving Glouai rugs. This type of rug combines many different styles and is filled with motifs that represent protection and well wishes for everyone in the village, as well as allows me to tell stories.

Can you tell us what a typical day in your life looks like?
I wake up and do my morning prayer and spend time with my family. I do a bit of housework and then will either go to the loom in my home or go to my neighbors house if I’m working alongside other colleagues.

We pause midday for lunch, and after a family meal, I return to the loom. 

As the sun sets, I complete the day’s weaving, then enjoy tea with my husband. The evening is spent relaxing as I prepare dinner for both of us.


What do you love to do beyond weaving?
I like to travel, visit relatives around Morocco, and do daily tasks around the house.

Thanks so much for the inspiring convo, Zahara! Shop pieces woven by Zahara and her colleagues here and below!

Translated by Abdellatif Mouhsine. Please note that some answers may have been edited or condensed for the sake of clarity.