…..’Unravelled’…..
Unraveling the Ethnographic Story of Sefrou’s La’kaad Buttons: A Collaborative Visual Anthropological Project.
February 2023 – July 2024
In collaboration with Fes University’s (USMBA) Cultural Studies Course, and Brigham Young’s (BYU) USA, Department of Anthropology, and the community of Sefrou, SAMA explores the ethnographic and cultural significance of the hand-woven La’kaad button. This research initiative, titled “Unravelled,” aims to examine the social and cultural dimensions of this traditional craft, contributing to the dialogue about intercultural relationships, identity, and multicultural heritage in Sefrou.
Over a year, our team, comprised of local researchers, students, university associates, and SAMA, is conducting fieldwork in and around Sefrou. In the spring of 2024, we will film and produce an anthropological documentary that will investigate the social, cultural, and economic contexts surrounding the production, market and use of these emblematic hand-woven buttons.
Using ethnographic methods like interviews and participant observation, “Unravelled” seeks to document diverse narratives and practices associated with the La’kaad buttons. We aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of their contemporary significance within Sefrouian society, shedding light on their role as markers of identity, tradition, and socio-economic dynamics.
Through physical exhibitions and an upcoming online platform, SAMA fosters community engagement and collaboration with local, national, and international partners. .….. “Unravelled” ….. will be integrated into SMM’s collection and public art route, accessible via a large QR code, enriching the cultural experience and understanding of Sefrou’s heritage for the community and wider audiences.
*Unravelled – working title.
Consulting Faculty – Dr. Khalid Barkaoui, Dr. Sadik Rddad, USMBA Fes, Morocco. Dr. Becky Schulthies and Dr. Jacob Hickman, Anthropology department, BYU Utah, USA.
Please reach out if you would like to support this project in any way. info@samasefrou.org
Sponsors Culture Vultures, Sefrou.
