Morocco Shines as Guest of Honor at MASA 2026
On April 11, 2026, the 14th edition of the Marketplace of African Performing Arts (MASA) officially commenced in Abidjan, with Morocco taking center stage as the esteemed guest of honor. This vibrant event has captivated the audience with the rich tapestry of Moroccan artistic expressions. The Moroccan pavilion, a focal point of the festival, has attracted significant attention at the Palais de la Culture in Treichville, showcasing the kingdom's profound cultural heritage and artistic diversity.
Morocco, a nation celebrated for its artistic legacy, literature, musical identity, and exquisite gastronomy, presented a unique opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in its cultural plurality. The extensive program featured a variety of cultural and artistic activities designed to highlight the richness of Moroccan heritage. Amarir Abdesalam, head of the inventory and documentation division of the Moroccan Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication, expressed, "As the guest of honor, we have curated activities that showcase the diverse cultural and artistic heritage of our country. We aimed to present key elements of our craftsmanship at MASA, allowing visitors to experience firsthand the creative processes of our artisans."
Artisans Showcase Traditional Moroccan Crafts
Among the talented artisans present, Abdelfatah Chalh, a master of traditional zellige from Fez, skillfully manipulates intricate tiles, mesmerizing onlookers with his precision and artistry. Zellige, a hallmark of Arab-Andalusian decorative arts, is an ancient craft that Chalh has honed since the age of 14. "My art is a form of Moroccan mosaic, comprised of small fragments of pottery that are double-fired with glaze. Each piece is meticulously cut into varied colors and assembled to create expansive decorative surfaces, as seen in mosques, palaces, and homes," he explained.
Using a specially designed hammer and bamboo tools, Chalh can create stunning pieces in just two to three hours. His presence, alongside other skilled artisans, serves to educate visitors about the elaborate techniques that underpin Moroccan craftsmanship.
In addition, Abderrahim Ahizoune, a calligrapher and painter, demonstrated the art of Moroccan calligraphy with remarkable speed and finesse. Utilizing ink and glossy paper, he produced beautifully crafted signs that appeared machine-made, including a banner featuring the logo of our media outlet, Le360. "In Moroccan calligraphy, we predominantly use red and green, reflecting our national flag. These colors symbolize love and life. We are thrilled to see that all visitors have appreciated our art since the event's opening," he remarked.
As reported by afrique.le360.ma.
