The exhibition At-Tāriq, curated by Daniela Zyman, delves into the rich musical traditions of North Africa and the Arab world. This innovative showcase, presented by TBA21 and the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum, introduces visitors to a unique space that embodies the spirit of hospitality. The artist, Tarek Atoui, explores the concept of the majlis—a traditional gathering place for guests—and invites audiences to experience the fusion of ancient and contemporary sounds. Through his electroacoustic compositions and collaborations with local musicians, Atoui creates an immersive environment that reflects on the cultural exchange along the trans-Saharan trade routes. A prelude concert in Marrakesh sets the stage for this exploration, while a second iteration in Madrid further expands the dialogue between tradition and innovation.

Inspired by the notion of "The Nightcomer" or "The Morning Star," Atoui's project is rooted in the idea of welcoming and sharing. His journey begins in the Tamazgha, the North African territories inhabited by the Amazigh people, known for their rich musical heritage. Over two years, Atoui engaged with musicians and artisans from the Moroccan Atlas region, creating a space of "poetic hospitality." This space not only welcomes but also resonates with the voices of those who have preserved these traditions for centuries. The exhibition itself becomes a living entity, where music transcends boundaries and invites visitors to explore the thresholds between the past and present.

The prelude concert held in Marrakesh, featuring a traditional ensemble from Ouarzazate and Zagora, marks a significant moment in this artistic journey. Musicians like Lahcen Amarrak, Said Ait Lhaj, and Aicha Boukhris come together to perform long poems and oral stories passed down through generations. These narratives, often recited with a hypnotic cadence, reflect both classical Arab epics and local legends, weaving a tapestry of history and culture. Atoui's electroacoustic experimentation adds a modern layer to these ancient sounds, creating a harmonious blend that bridges the familiar and the unknown.

As the exhibition moves to Madrid, the collaboration deepens. On March 3, Atoui reunites with the Moroccan ensemble, joined by three artists who contributed to the exhibition's soundscape: Susie Ibarra, Nancy Mounir, and Ziúr. This convergence of talents highlights the nomadic nature of music, where traditions travel and transform through encounters. The performance at ARCO International Art Fair promises to be a captivating experience, as it brings together diverse voices in a celebration of cultural exchange and innovation.

Tarek Atoui's work exemplifies the power of music to foster connections across time and space. By combining traditional elements with contemporary techniques, he invites us to rethink the role of sound in shaping identity and community. Through At-Tāriq, Atoui not only showcases the richness of rural musical traditions but also encourages us to embrace the nomadic spirit within us all. The exhibition ultimately serves as a reminder that hospitality, whether in the form of music or human interaction, has the potential to create profound and lasting bonds.