Youness Sefyaoui: Moroccan visual artist exploring belonging, solitude, and human connection | 54Ruum Spotlight

Youness Sefyaoui is a North African visual artist based in Morocco. He was born and raised in Safi. Art, especially photography, has become a way of life for him; it expands his imagination and challenges him. 

Photography, for him, is a refuge that protects him from the sense of insignificance she might otherwise have faced.

He seeks, through his photography, to make sense of life in a humorous and fascinating way. Through his ongoing personal projects, he encourages people to experience the beauty and hardship that shape human existence.

His works are visual narratives that reflect her reality while resonating with universal themes of love, conflict, resilience, and identity within the family unit.

How would you describe yourself in a few sentences?

Honest, realistic, and curious.

How did you first get into photography?

I got into photography quite naturally. There wasn’t a single defining moment, more a gradual awakening. At first, I was drawn to observing life around me: people, gestures, spaces, and quiet details that often go unnoticed. Over time, the camera became a way for me to make sense of what I was feeling and experiencing.

What type(s) of photography do you specialise in, and why did you choose this niche?

I’ve always been interested in all kinds of photography. I don’t like to limit myself to one style or category, as each approach offers a different way to see and feel the world.

I feel that photography is about exploration and freedom, not being trapped in a box, hence, I follow what draws my attention in the moment, whether it’s a person, a space, or an atmosphere.

Can you share the underlying themes or ideas that drive your photography?

My work explores themes of belonging, solitude, and human connection. I’m drawn to quiet moments that reveal how we exist within spaces and relationships.

Through my images, I create a feeling of recognition, a silent bridge between my experience and that of others.

What’s the one achievement or moment in your photography career that you’re most proud of?

One of the moments I’m most proud of is when I began merging my mother into my art. It started as a simple idea and grew into something deeply meaningful, blending her voice, handwriting, and presence with my images.

It made my work more intimate and honest, reminding me that art can also be a way to honour where we come from and the people who shape us.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a photographer, and how did you overcome it?

One of my biggest challenges has been dealing with instability and a sense of not fully belonging. I’ve learnt to turn those experiences into creative fuel, using impermanence and resilience to shape my work and trust my intuition.

If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be and why?

I would love to collaborate with Khalid Derrak (Drummer). His rhythm and energy are incredible, and I feel our work could create a unique dialogue between sound and image.

I also love to continue collaborating with my mother, whose voice and presence are already deeply intertwined with my work, even though she doesn’t have an Instagram account.

What are your thoughts on the 54Ruum platform?

54Ruum is a great initiative that creates real opportunities for artists to grow and connect. Platforms like this support emerging voices, encourage collaboration, and bring more recognition to African photography.

How’s the photography and art space in your country: how has it evolved in recent years?

The photography and art scene in Morocco is growing, but it still faces challenges such as limited resources, exposure, and institutional support.

Despite this, there is a lot of energy and creativity, with artists finding ways to experiment, share their work, and push boundaries in meaningful ways.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting their photography journey, what would it be?

My advice would be to follow your curiosity and trust your instinct.