HISTORY

In 2004 with the rise of global tensions, Vanessa Branson envisioned a cultural festival that would address social issues through the arts, using them as a vehicle for debate and discussion and to build bridges between diverse ideologies. The Marrakech Biennale would become a celebration of creativity in a city that has been the focus of artistic exploration for centuries but with limited emphasis on contemporary art. Beginning in 2005 as a gathering of arts enthusiasts who organised literary events and exhibitions, the Biennale has grown to become an internationally recognised event with a thriving visual art and literature programme. We are thrilled to announce the launch of two more sections: architecture and performing arts.

Past participants of the Marrakech Biennale include:

Yto Barrada:

Visual artist based in Tangier and co-founder of Cinematheque de Tanger.

Abdellah Karroum:

Moroccan art historian, curator and founder of Gallery Appartement 22.

Anthony Horowitz:

English novelist, screenwriter, and children’s book writer. Known for Alex Rider and The Power of Five.

Alan Yentob:

Creative Director for the BBC and host of BBC arts program Imagine.

Matthew Bannister:

Broadcaster and former BBC Executive.

Kevin MacDonald:

Oscar Winning film producer for his film, One Day in September, and BAFTA award winner for his film The Last King in Scotland.

Hassan Darsi:

Founder of the Art Project “La Source du Lion” and is a dynamic Moroccan artist who exhibits domestically and abroad.

Ben Okri:

Nigerian poet and novelist and is considered to be one of Africa’s most notable writers.

Zadie Smith:

British novelist and essayist. Most notably known for her works, White Teeth and Autograph Man.

Coco Rosie:

Internationally reknowned sibling duo who have played at the Sydney Opera House, Pompidou Center, L’Olympia among other places.

Faouzi Bensaidi:

Moroccan director and prize-winner of more than 23 prizes including at the Cannes Film Festival and the Venice Film Festival.

Mohamed Bakrim:

Critic, professor, President of Moroccan Association of Cinematographic
Studies, and Vice President of African Federation of Film Critics.

For more information about previous editions, visit our ARCHIVES.

Marrakech