One of the most important Tunisian artists, during his training he absorbed numerous European and Asian artistic influences which led him to mix different techniques, from batik to Chinese watercolor. His art was informed by political events, in particular by the end of the colonial empires and the war in Tunisia and Algeria. Bold and aggressive, his style blends impressionist landscapes and harsh representations of hardship and poverty. With gray tones and a rust-dominated palette, El Mekki addresses intensely the themes of exile and loss, raising questions about the nature of belonging and identity.
