Meet Muhcine Ennou

Getting to Know Muhcine Ennou

Can you briefly introduce yourself and tell us how you started in the industry and with CG? What inspires the worlds you create?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, travel was restricted, and I couldn’t explore the world physically. This limitation became an opportunity to turn inward, imagining and creating the worlds within my mind. It made me question reality and explore how to translate those abstract ideas into visual experiences. That’s how I started with CG, it gave me a way to bring those internal visions to life.

You’ve lived in many different places, from Morocco to Amsterdam. How has each culture contributed to your growth as an artist and the way you tell stories?

Every place I’ve lived has left a mark on my creative journey. Morocco gave me a deep appreciation for tradition, texture, and storytelling, while Amsterdam introduced me to a sense of calmness and balance. Each culture adds layers to my perspective, enabling me to create works that blend rich heritage with a contemporary lens.

In your work, we often see a blend of traditional and futuristic elements. Can you explain how you connect these two worlds, and what they mean to you personally?

It’s very personal - it’s about who I am. I carry a rich cultural heritage while being deeply open to the possibilities of the future. Growing up in an analog era and transitioning to digital has shaped how I see the world. By blending traditional and futuristic elements, I’m able to bridge the past with the present, creating art that resonates across generations.

You work as a director, CG artist, and music producer. Could you take us through a project where all these roles came together, and what was the biggest challenge in that collaboration with yourself?

There was a project where I had to combine all my roles - directing, creating CG visuals, and producing music. The biggest challenge was knowing when to stop, especially with music. It’s a battle of instincts and trust. You have to feel when something is complete and resist the urge to overwork it. That’s where playfulness and discipline meet.

How does your heritage and culture as someone with Moroccan roots influence the way you create music and visuals? Are there specific motifs or stories from your childhood that keep reappearing in your work?

My Moroccan heritage is central to my work. The textures, colors, and stories of my childhood often resurface, sometimes even unconsciously. Growing up surrounded by rich traditions and vibrant contrasts, I’ve learned to incorporate these elements into my art, from music to visuals as a way to celebrate my roots and share them with the world.

Could you tell us about a moment when you felt completely challenged as an artist, one that even made you doubt your work? How did you get through that moment?

Doubt is part of every challenge and new experience. Whenever I start a new project, there’s always a moment of uncertainty a voice asking, “What if this doesn’t work?” But I’m stubborn. I push through because I love the challenge. My life is about improvisation and playfulness, but it’s also serious because I never give up. That mindset helps me overcome any doubt.

How does the city of Amsterdam influence your creative process compared to Morocco? What does 'home' mean to you as someone who carries so many different influences?

Amsterdam has a calmness that’s rare. The parks, the trees, and the balance of the city create an environment where I can focus and find inspiration. Morocco, on the other hand, is vibrant and intense, filled with contrasts that fuel my creativity. To me, home is a feeling rather than a place. It’s about being at peace with myself wherever I am.

Looking back at your creative journey, what was the most important insight you’ve gained, and how has that changed your work?

The most important insight has been learning to trust my instincts. Over time, I’ve realized that the process of creation is as important as the outcome. This understanding has allowed me to embrace improvisation and take risks, which often lead to unexpected and exciting results.

Can you name a project you’re particularly proud of?

One project that stands out is the Samsung 2023 global campaign I worked on with Wieden+Kennedy. It involved a lot of improvisation, which pushed me creatively and emotionally. What made it special was the challenge of provoking something as iconic as Apple through CG animations. It was an incredible learning experience and a testament to the power of collaboration and risk-taking.

Finally, what’s next for you? Any exciting projects or personal goals you’re looking forward to?

I’m always looking forward to the next challenge. Whether it’s a new medium, a new collaboration, or a personal project, I want to keep pushing boundaries and exploring new ways to tell stories. For me, the journey of discovery never stops.