Driss Chaoui, a French-Moroccan storyteller of colour and culture
Driss Chaoui, aka Kalakal, is a Toulouse-based illustrator and self-proclaimed colour enthusiast whose work is as vibrant as his inspirations. He was long-listed for the 2024 World Illustration Awards and a selected winner of the 2024 American Illustration Awards. Coming from a richly diverse background and living at the intersection of the queer and the muslim world, Driss has a passion for cultural exploration and loves to add fun, glamour, and a touch of camp to his work.
He shared with us some insights into his inspirations as he officially joins the roster, along with his creative process, and dream projects.
What would you say is your best piece of work / collaboration to date, and why?
If I had to chose, I had a blast working on my Madonna pet project series this summer. It was funny, glamorous, and just a bit outrageous.
Where do you like to go to be inspired, or how do you find your inspiration?
I find myself growing more and more attracted to camp culture and slightly over-the-top aesthetics. My moroccan roots have also always been a source of inspiration for me.
Is there anything you'd say you would be a good advocate for? Please elaborate if so.
Living at the intersection of the queer and the muslim world, I’m always very happy to give back to both communities and more.
What would you say sets you apart from other illustrators? Something you feel is unique to you.
I never truly outgrew the weird kid I was earlier in life, and it often slightly shows through the projects I work on, one way or another.
If you have done paid commissions prior to joining the agency, what would you say is something that clients repeatedly come to you for (up to now)?
I believe an illustrator’s job is to tell a story, first and foremost. I’d I’m getting hired for my creative language when it comes to translating concepts and ideas.
How would you describe your style?
A bit funky, sometimes serious, sometimes silly, always very colourful.
Please give a scenario of a project that would mean the world to you, if you were offered it - something that connects to something meaningful to you
That’s a tough question, as my head is full of dream projects. If I had to pick one, I’ve been dying to work with WeTransfer since I was a student. Extra points if the project had to do with something queer, MENA related or just very nerdy. Or all three at once.
Are you working on any personal projects you can share with us?
I’ve been listening to Chappel Roan a lot lately, and I can tell I definitely want to start a series of animations about her in the very near future.
Finally, if you were to illustrate a book related to a real life person, who would that be?
Thinking about it on the spot, how great would it be to work on a book about Lady Gaga’s career? Awesome.
If you’d like more info, please contact: [email protected]
At illo agency, we pride ourselves in representing a collation of global illustrators, distinctly diverse in creativity and uniquely celebrated by like-minded clients across a range of commercial markets.