Born in Casablanca, Morocco, Bouchra Khalili pursued her academic training in France, graduating with degrees in Film and Media Studies from Sorbonne Nouvelle and Visual Arts from the Ecole Nationale d’Arts de Paris-Cergy. Her early work established a focus on the intersection of cinematic language and sociopolitical inquiry.

Khalili’s practice is characterized by the use of film, video, and photography to document the experiences of individuals navigating borders and displacement. Her signature projects often involve long-term research, resulting in multi-channel installations that challenge conventional representations of migration and national identity.

She has gained international recognition for her contributions to contemporary art, with her work featured in major global exhibitions and biennials. Her practice continues to be noted for its rigorous approach to storytelling and its commitment to giving voice to those outside traditional historical narratives.