Marrakech Hope, 2023

On Friday 8th September this year, a devastating earthquake struck Morocco. I don’t know any individuals directly affected by the earthquake but although the epicentre was 70 kilometres south of Marrakech, parts of the Medina were damaged with some buildings in the souks destroyed. I don’t know their names, but I feel that I know the people in my paintings – they have been living with me in my studio through the painting of these pieces – and for them, as a gesture of respect and hope, I have dedicated Marrakech Hope (cat.1), to the people of Morocco. John Brown

Following the Morocco earthquake, British Red Cross has launched an emergency appeal to help support people affected. On Friday 8 September, 11pm local time, a 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck Morocco. The epicentre was in the High Atlas Mountains, approximately 70 kilometres south of Marrakech. A 4.9 magnitude aftershock followed just 20 minutes later. Local authorities are reporting that more than 2,900 people have died, with many more critically injured. The total number of people affected is in the hundreds of thousands. Many of the worst affected areas are remote and mountainous, and the impact of the earthquake has made them even harder to reach. People have lost everything. Homes have been reduced to rubble and survivors are in need of basic support like shelter, food and water.

All proceeds from the sale of this painting will be donated to The British Red Cross. We thank Brien & Brown for donating a bespoke frame.