This exhibition features the works of young artists from the Institute of Fine Arts of Tétouan and the École Supérieure des Beaux-Arts of Casablanca, who used several techniques, including painting on canvas, paper and wood of different sizes.
The works exhibited during this artistic event, inaugurated in the presence of the CEO of the BCP group, Naziha Belkeziz, as well as personalities from the world of finance, art, culture and literature, address themes linked to heritage, memory, nostalgia, traditional arts and human expressiveness which are expressed in one way or another in the paintings.
Through this event, Banque Populaire celebrates art and culture and strengthens its support for young talents, indicated the chairman of the board of directors of Banque Populaire de Rabat-Kénitra, Adil Rzal.
Banque Populaire, he continued, remains faithful to this tradition and this initiative which “warms our hearts and allows us to discover various aspects, emotions and feelings outside the professional framework”.
For her part, the general secretary of the Banque Populaire Foundation, Houda Laaraj, indicated that the inauguration of this exhibition was an opportunity to award the ”Banque Populaire Foundation Prize for young artists” to the three best works exhibited among the creations of the eight young talents who participated in this artistic residency.
These young people benefited from master classes and screen printing and pottery workshops, all complemented by visits to museums and galleries to nourish their artistic reflection.
This inspiring framework offered these young people the freedom to explore various approaches in accordance with their artistic sensibilities, noting that the BCP Group continues to support young artists by offering them the ideal conditions to develop and express their creativity, thus contributing to the enrichment of the national artistic scene.
For their part, the winning artists expressed their immense joy at having lived this “exceptional experience” which began with the artistic residency organized by the Banque Populaire Foundation in Bouznika and culminated with the obtaining of these prizes which constitute a source of pride for them.
Interview: The Intersection of Art and Heritage
Editor of Time.news: Welcome to this special edition of Time.news. Today, we’re focusing on an exciting exhibition that recently took place showcasing the remarkable works of young artists from the Institute of Fine Arts of Tétouan and the École Supérieure des Beaux-Arts of Casablanca. We have with us Dr. Fatima Zahra, an art historian and cultural expert, to delve deeper into the significance of this event. Welcome, Dr. Zahra!
Dr. Fatima Zahra: Thank you for having me! I’m delighted to be here to discuss such an important celebration of art and culture.
Editor: This exhibition features works that employ a diverse range of techniques and mediums. How important is this variety in artistic expression for young artists?
Dr. Zahra: Diversity in techniques is vital for artists, especially those who are just starting their careers. It allows them to explore their creativity fully and find their unique voices. The combination of canvas, paper, and wood in various sizes challenges them to push boundaries and develop their individual styles. This exhibition not only showcases their talent but also emphasizes the importance of experimentation in the artistic process.
Editor: The themes of the artworks revolve around heritage, memory, nostalgia, traditional arts, and human expressiveness. Why do you think these themes resonate so deeply with both the artists and the audience?
Dr. Zahra: These themes are intrinsic to human experience. Heritage evokes a sense of identity and belonging, while memory and nostalgia connect us to our past. By reflecting on traditional arts, these artists bridge the gap between generations. Human expressiveness is perhaps the most universal theme, allowing viewers to relate personally to the emotions captured in the artwork. In a rapidly changing world, revisiting these themes fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of our cultural roots.
Editor: The exhibition was inaugurated in the presence of prominent financial and cultural figures, including the CEO of the BCP group, Naziha Belkeziz. How significant is it for corporate entities to support events like this?
Dr. Zahra: It is extremely significant. When corporations like Banque Populaire actively support the arts, they not only provide financial backing but also lend credibility to cultural initiatives. This shows a commitment to fostering talent and enriching the community. Moreover, it creates a symbiotic relationship where businesses can engage positively with the cultural landscape, enhancing their corporate social responsibility efforts while nurturing the next generation of artists.
Editor: What impact do you think this exhibition will have on the participating artists and their future careers?
Dr. Zahra: Exhibiting their work in such a prestigious setting can be a game-changer for these young artists. It provides them exposure to a wider audience, including potential buyers and art critics, which could lead to future opportunities—be it solo exhibitions, collaborations, or even residencies. The validation from recognized figures and the community can boost their confidence and motivate them to continue pursuing their passion.
Editor: what is your hope for the future of art in Morocco, especially for emerging artists?
Dr. Zahra: I hope to see more support for young artists from both public and private sectors. It’s essential to create more platforms where they can showcase their talents and engage with audiences. The vibrant culture of Morocco deserves to be celebrated and shared globally. As these young artists flourish, they will contribute significantly to the cultural dialogue, not just within our borders but on a world stage.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Zahra, for sharing your insights with us today. It’s clear that events like this exhibition play a crucial role in nurturing the arts and cultural identity. We look forward to seeing how these young talents evolve!
Dr. Zahra: Thank you! It was a pleasure discussing these important topics with you.