The documentary photographer M’hammed Kilito (Moroccan, b. 1981 in Ukraine) with his project “Before it’s gone” has stood out among all entries and is the winner of this Open Call themed “Home: A State of Transition”. According to the jury, he presents us with a very mature and coherent body of work translated into a long-term commitment to such a relevant issue in his own country. 

“Before it’s gone is an ongoing, long-term, multidisciplinary art project that highlights the complex and multidimensional issues of oasis degradation in Morocco and its impact on its inhabitants. Over the past few years, I have visited many oases, where I have made strong connections with its inhabitants. I was able to understand this rich environment but also its glaring realities. I realized that desertification, recurrent droughts and fires, changes in agricultural practices, overexploitation of natural resources, rural exodus and the sharp drop in the water table are all imminent threats to the existence of oases.” M.K.

The oasis degradation in Morocco is forcing the displacement of many, including the young generations who are forced to leave due to water crises, lack of job opportunities, and isolation. With his visual narrative of landscapes, portraits and objects, M’hammed welcomes us all to enter the world of those who have been suffering from the impacts of destructive human activities and climate change.