The art of estimates

There is a particular way Algerians measure cooking ingredients, especially before a large feast. Although, mind you, it is exercised in a bit of everything. In the way that kindness supersedes self-profit, when a visitor can’t resist a fine piece of silver at the Casbah of Algiers of Alger Centre. Perhaps that’s why I returned to this image that I captured, many years ago. And if the picture is not yet quite clear for you, an internet search will tellRead more

Poem

1st November, 2024 And when they ask who defended you Tell them it was your elders His uncle and his uncle’s uncle The neighbour’s middle child Those up above  And down below  However long the earth spun 1 million and 1 And if I’m their daughter  Why should it be cumbersome Image: Algiers horizon and Maqam ShahidRead more

Poem

5th July, 2024 | For future lovers, fathers, grandfathers, nephews and brothers – a letter from Algerian women to Algerian men who don’t remember: Don’t you remember? I hope you remember Me on the terrace In ululation for freedom And they came And they went And they pointed guns! And they could have taken us… But we stretched our vocal chords wider, and we stretched them perpendicular Like a she-wolf howls at the Harvest moon Except this was our moon!Read more

Photograph

Algiers Series | Timimoun Connections | A young boy orders some snacks from the tea hotspot in central Algiers. Customers are plenty at this favourite snack hut in the heart of the capital. Friendly chat is exchanged as people wait for their orders of fresh mint tea. The tea shop resembles a hole in the wall but one that is not easily missed. In a box-like store in the wall, a window allows passersby to peer in from the sidewalkRead more

Photograph

Algiers Series | Unexpected Love Story | Didou swore by his love for his wife. So much so that he decorated every corner of his inner city apartment block in ceramic celebrations of her life. After all it was her dying wish. In the entrance hallway of a European build, he has plastered pictures of his beloved, family members and memories from his boxing days. Didou talks through every picture like a tribute, each attached to a story he insistsRead more