July 16, 2024: Emilie Rhys has completed the cover art of Mahmoud Chouki’s new album “CARAVAN: From Marrakech to New Orleans,” produced by Gallatin Street Records in New Orleans. A 12″ vinyl version of the album will be released in the fall of 2024.
The original oil painting on copper by artist Emilie Rhys measures the same size as the vinyl, 12″ square. It depicts musician and bandleader Mahmoud Chouki leaning into the upright of a classic New Orleans balcony “iron lace” railing, which bisects the composition. On the left side behind him is the view down Orleans Street in the French Quarter of New Orleans, culminating in the back façade of the iconic St. Louis Cathedral. On the right side behind him is the famed 12th Century Koutoubia Mosque of Marrakech, Morocco.
Mr. Chouki is a native of Morocco who moved to New Orleans in 2017, soon after to become friends with Ms. Rhys.
Listen to the album/purchase on Bandcamp: CARAVAN