2019
50 x 70 (cm)
Encaustic on Wood
In the vast, sprawling desert of Merzouga, a lone motorcyclist found themselves disoriented and lost amidst the towering sand dunes. The relentless sun beat down mercilessly, casting a shimmering mirage across the horizon. The sound of the engine echoed through the emptiness, carrying a tinge of desperation.
The rider, let's call him Alex, had embarked on a daring adventure to explore the mesmerizing beauty of the Moroccan desert. Equipped with a trusty motorcycle and a spirit of wanderlust, Alex had ventured far off the beaten path, seeking a thrill and a connection with the untamed wilderness.
However, as the hours passed and the dunes began to merge together in a disorienting haze, Alex realized they had strayed too far from familiar landmarks. Panic crept into their heart as they struggled to recall the path that had led them here. The desert was a labyrinth of shifting sands, and the once clear tracks left by their tires were now erased by the wind.
With a deep breath, Alex decided to gather their wits and assess the situation. They dismounted the motorcycle, feeling the scorching sand beneath their feet. In every direction, the view was an endless expanse of golden dunes, stretching into infinity. Survival instincts kicked in, and Alex knew they had to take immediate action.
Recalling the basic principles of desert navigation, Alex looked up at the sun, gauging its position in the sky. They deduced that they must be heading roughly west, and so decided to walk in the opposite direction, hoping to find a landmark or a sign of civilization.
Hour after hour, Alex trudged through the shifting sands, battling exhaustion and dehydration. The motorcycle, now left behind, served as a painful reminder of their miscalculation. Desperation turned into determination as Alex pressed on, their determination fueled by the hope of finding rescue.
Just as the sun began its descent toward the horizon, casting long shadows across the desert, a glimmer of hope appeared. In the distance, a faint silhouette emerged—a nomadic campsite, nestled against a small cluster of palm trees. Relief washed over Alex as they quickened their pace, a renewed energy coursing through their veins.
Approaching the camp, Alex was greeted by friendly faces and outstretched hands. The nomadic tribe, masters of survival in this harsh environment, offered hospitality and shelter. They listened intently to Alex's story, nodding empathetically at the tale of a lost wanderer in the vastness of Merzouga.
With their guidance, Alex was reunited with their motorcycle the next day. The tribe's experienced guides accompanied them back to civilization, tracing the path they had lost. It was a humbling and eye-opening experience for Alex, a reminder of the unforgiving power of nature and the importance of respect for the land.
As Alex bid farewell to the nomadic tribe, they carried with them not only the memories of being lost in Merzouga but also a newfound appreciation for the desert's beauty and the resilience of its people. From that day forward, Alex vowed to continue exploring the world but with a deeper understanding of the risks and the importance of preparedness.
And so, the story of a lost motorcyclist in Merzouga became a cautionary tale, whispered around campfires and shared among adventurers. A tale of redemption and gratitude, reminding us all to heed the call of the wild but never underestimate its power.
Available in Materica Paper version with frame