Abderrahim Chawki Unit (2004)

Since 2001, the Mevlana Mosque has been located in Rotterdam West. The building has a large dome roof and two 42 meter high minarets. There is a square in front of the entrance with a black and red motif. Since 2004, there is a stone sculpture on a square base at the head of this square. The sculpture has the title Unit and was made by sculptor Abderrahim Chawki. He makes images based on Arabic script: he converts characters into images. For example, he investigates the relationship between language and image, and the relationship between earth and his native Moroccan language. As a stonemason, he makes images for public space, combining traditions of Eastern calligraphy with Western art. The image thus embodies the bridge between cultures and strives for unity.