The upcoming 9th International Biennale of Arts (BINA) in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, is set to be an extraordinary celebration of creativity and cultural exchange, featuring around 47 artists from both local and international backgrounds. Among the distinguished participants are eight Moroccan artists: Najib Mtoul, Mohamed Tayert, Riham Amghar, Ahmed Elazizi, Bouchra Bifadlallah, Ahmed Chiha, Soumaya Mrabet, and Echchahed Rabiaa. This initiative, spearheaded by Ivorian painter Augustin Kassi, embodies the theme of "art and creation" and aims to strengthen the ties between Sub-Saharan Africa and North Africa.
Kassi noted that Morocco's selection as the guest of honor reflects the organizers' commitment to enhancing cultural bridges between these regions. The Biennale will kick off with a special opening dedicated to the Moroccan delegation, and it aspires not only to showcase artistic works but also to facilitate dialogues among creators, art critics, gallery owners, and cultural center representatives. One of the key objectives is to provide Ivorian and African artists an opportunity to explore diverse artistic scenes while allowing foreign participants to gain insight into the rich cultural realities of Ivory Coast.
In addition to the Moroccan artists, BINA will also welcome participants from various countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Cameroon, Nigeria, Benin, Togo, Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Senegal, the Netherlands, and Austria. Najib Mtoul, who is also the president of the "Ofoq’Arts" Association for art and culture, expressed his enthusiasm for Morocco's honorary role this year, emphasizing that it signifies the strong cooperative relationships between Morocco and Ivory Coast and the fraternal bonds connecting Moroccan artists with their Ivorian counterparts.
The participation of Morocco in this Biennale will afford both Ivorian and foreign visitors a unique opportunity to closely experience the nation's visual arts, characterized by their diversity, uniqueness, and splendor. This event serves as a reunion for artists, reinforcing existing connections while fostering exchanges and openness to different artistic schools and cultures. The Kingdom of Morocco consistently shows a strong interest in the continent, with numerous African artists frequently participating in events held in Morocco, just as Moroccan artists are involved in activities elsewhere in Africa.
Under the auspices of the Ivorian Ministry of Culture and Francophonie, BINA aims to be a true bridge among artists from various backgrounds and a space for dialogue and cultural exchange. The event will feature a vibrant program of exhibitions and interactions at the French Institute of Abidjan and other partner galleries, alongside artistic residencies. A standout aspect of this edition is the inclusion of programs that reflect the economic and social identity of Ivory Coast, allowing participating artists to immerse themselves in the cocoa-producing region of Moronou.
As reported by mobile.telquel.ma.
