This international artistic event will bring together photographers from the four corners of the globe, notably from China, the country in the spotlight, as well as from Canada, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, to celebrate photographic art in all its diversity, the document specifies.
This edition, placed under the sign of openness to new horizons, promises to be rich in discoveries, exchanges and debates, with a particular emphasis placed on youth and creativity.
Launched in 2016 by the Voix Plurielles association, in partnership with Cultures Nomades Production (France), the Regional Tourism Council (CRT), as well as numerous cultural and economic actors in Marrakech, this event quickly became one of the meetings -you essentials of contemporary photography.
In a few years, the Marrakech Photography Meetings have established themselves at the international level, competing with benchmark events such as the Arles Photography Meetings, while retaining a unique Moroccan identity, specifies the same source.
Today, the Rencontres de Marrakech attract the attention of a wide audience, but also artists and professionals from around the world, becoming a major platform for exchange and creation on the international artistic scene.
For this 4th edition, Marrakech, recently designated Cultural Capital of the Islamic World 2024, is fully mobilizing and many emblematic spaces of the city will host exhibitions and events as part of this event.
These are cadi Ayyad University, the Mohammed VI Cultural Center, the Confluences Dar El Bacha museum, Meydene, M’avenue, the Dada gallery, the Sofitel hotel, as well as emblematic places like the Koutoubia square , the Place des Ferblantiers, the station square, the Town Hall square, and the palais des Congrès square with the Mövenpick.
This collective mobilization will make it possible to host large-scale exhibitions, but also to create spaces for exchange thru conferences, debates and screenings, making the city the scene of a true celebration of photography.
Professionals, amateurs and the curious will thus find themselves in an atmosphere that is both festive and relaxed, underlines the press release, which notes that the 2024 edition will be marked by the diversity of participating international artists, coming from Morocco, France, China , from Egypt, Yemen, Lebanon, Canada, and many other countries.
A crossroads of cultures, Marrakech will highlight this diversity of approaches and photographic perspectives from five continents, underlines the press release, noting that the exhibitions organized as part of this event will continue until November 30, 2024.
This year, a special place will be given to women photographers, with two highlights: Cartes Blanches dedicated to afghan women and the African diaspora, highlighting thier resilience and their hopes, as well as the Regard de Femmes exhibition which will present the work of three internationally renowned photographers, namely, Angèle Etoundi Essamba, Cynthia Benjamin, copper and Mina Kawachy.
For five days, Marrakech will vibrate to the rhythm of photography, specify the organizers, who indicate that the program will include international exhibitions, in cultural and historical places in Marrakech, where renowned and emerging photographers will exhibit their works.
These are image workshops, continues the press release, which specifies that workshops will raise awareness among students and high school students about photography, in order to create vocations among the younger generations, from October 17, at the cadi Ayyad University and the Benabdallah school group in partnership with Epson.
There are also portfolio readings, on October 24 and 25, from 10:00 a.m.,at the Museum of Gastronomy,the document says,specifying that photographers will be able to present their portfolios to a panel of experts and receive critiques constructive ways to improve their work.
There is also talk of conference debates on October 24 and 25 at the university, including a conference which will address the legal aspects of photography, including image rights and copyright, as well as the impact of creation by artificial intelligence (AI).
To facilitate the revelation of the exhibitions scattered throughout marrakech, bicycles, in partnership with the PIKALA association, will be made available to the public upon registration, an initiative which will allow visitors to move quickly from one place to another while adopting an ecological approach.
the organizers also rely on an interactive and participatory approach, allowing visitors, whether amateurs or professionals, to fully immerse themselves in the world of photography and interact directly with the artists.
Each exhibition will thus be an possibility for spontaneous discussions, unforeseen encounters and unforgettable moments of sharing.
One of the particularities of the Marrakech Photography Meetings is to highlight youth and creativity.
In its role as Cultural Capital of the Islamic World 2024, Marrakech is becoming a true center of exchange and artistic discovery. Four young artists passionate about photography will have the opportunity to offer an exhibition in public space around the theme El Bahja.
During these five days, Marrakech will be transformed into a sanctuary of photographic art, where innovation, tradition, diversity and passion will mingle, a unique experience for lovers of art and photography.
– What are the key themes to expect at the Marrakech Photography Meetings this year?
Interview Transcript: Time.news Editor with Photography Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome, everyone, to our latest interview segment! Today, we’re diving into the dynamic and inspiring world of photography, especially focusing on the upcoming Marrakech photography Meetings. Joining us is Dr. Lena Rajani, a prominent photography expert who has extensively studied contemporary photographic practices around the globe. Welcome, Dr. Rajani!
Dr. Lena Rajani: Thank you for having me! I’m thrilled to discuss this exciting event.
Editor: The Marrakech Photography Meetings have established a significant presence on the international stage since their inception in 2016. What do you think sets this event apart from other notable photography festivals like the Arles Photography Meetings?
dr. Rajani: Great question! While Arles has a long history and a strong European backdrop, the Marrakech Photography Meetings stand out due to their unique Moroccan identity and their commitment to cultural diversity. They bring together photographers from around the globe, especially highlighting talents from regions like China, Africa, and the Middle East. This varied representation amplifies underrepresented voices in the art world and creates a truly global dialog.
Editor: With this year’s edition emphasizing “openness to new horizons” and a focus on youth and creativity, what should we expect to see in terms of themes and photographic narratives?
dr. Rajani: Expect to see a stunning amalgamation of styles and perspectives! The focus on youth signals a fresh wave of creativity that frequently enough challenges conventional narratives. Artists are likely to explore themes of identity,migration,ecology,and social justice through innovative lenses.Given the significance of Marrakech as the Cultural Capital of the Islamic World in 2024, there’s a rich chance for photographers to delve into the intersections of culture and identity within the Islamic context while engaging with global ideas.
Editor: The event promises to be a vibrant space for exchanges and debates as well. How do you believe these discussions contribute to the growth of contemporary photography?
Dr. Rajani: These dialogues are crucial! They foster collaborative learning and sharing of ideas, pushing the boundaries of what photography can convey. By inviting not just artists but also critics, curators, and academics to participate, the conversations can led to greater visibility for emerging artists and innovative trends. It also creates a community of practice where photographers can critique and refine their work in a supportive environment.
Editor: Marrakech is set to host the event in various iconic spaces across the city. How critically important is the choice of venue in shaping the audience’s experience of the exhibitions?
Dr. Rajani: The venues play a significant role! Hosting exhibitions in culturally rich and historic locations like the Koutoubia square or the Mohammed VI Cultural Center not only enhances the aesthetic experience but also deepens the connection between the artwork and the cultural context. It allows the audience to immerse themselves in the local atmosphere,which can elevate their understanding and appreciation of the work being showcased.Moreover, these spaces create a vibrant backdrop for the celebrations of art and culture.
Editor: As photography continues to evolve in the digital age, where do you see the future of photographic art heading, especially in festivals like this?
Dr. Rajani: We’re at a engaging crossroads. With advancements in technology, photography is more accessible than ever, leading to an explosion of creative voices. Festivals like the Marrakech photography Meetings will increasingly serve as incubators for these new talents. I anticipate we’ll see more experimental forms of photography, including virtual reality and multi-media installations, incorporated into traditional exhibitions. Additionally, the dialogue around ethical practices in photography, like representation and consent, will become even more prominent.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Rajani! Your insights offer a deep understanding of the Marrakech Photography Meetings and the broader context of contemporary photography.As we look forward to the event, it’s evident we’re in for an engaging and enriching experience.
Dr.Rajani: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to see how this year’s event unfolds and what new perspectives will be brought to light.
Editor: And thank you to our audience for joining us. Stay tuned for more updates on the Marrakech Photography Meetings and the world of contemporary photography!