The Banque Populaire Gallery in Rabat has kicked off its cultural season with the exhibition “When Art Finds a Home,” which runs until February 28, 2025. This event marks the culmination of the third edition of the Banque Populaire Foundation’s artist residency, highlighting the creative efforts of eight young artists who have been immersed in an artistic journey themed around “The World of Tomorrow.”
A celebration of emerging talent
The exhibition’s opening on November 8 was a grand affair, attended by notable figures such as Naziha Belkeziz, CEO of BCP Group, along with top executives like Jalil Sebti, Kamal Mokdad, Adil Rzal, and Houda Laaraj, Secretary General of the Banque Populaire Foundation. Art, business, and political personalities also joined the celebration, underscoring the resonance of this event within Morocco’s artistic and cultural landscape.
The evening included a highlight: the awarding of the three best pieces created by the resident artists, recognizing Soufiane Nait Addi, Zouheir Chihad, and Imane Laaribi with the Banque Populaire Foundation’s Young Artist Award, granting them cash prizes of 50,000, 30,000, and 20,000 dirhams respectively.
An artistic residency with purpose
This summer, the Banque Populaire Vacation Center in Bouznika brought together eight talented young artists from the Fine Arts Institute of Tetouan and Casablanca’s Higher School of Fine Arts. Over a three-week residency, Fatima Ezzahra Khilad, Imane Laaribi, Dounia Tabti, Ibtissam Zahir, Zouhair Chihad, Mouad El Bissaoui, Soufiane Mezraoui, and Soufiane Nait Addi explored ideas surrounding the theme “The World of Tomorrow.” With the guidance of esteemed art professionals, they participated in master classes, workshops on screen printing and pottery, and visits to museums and galleries, which enriched their creative explorations.
Artworks rooted in tradition and introspection
The resulting works reveal a remarkable fusion of perspectives and styles. Four artists focused on themes of heritage, memory, nostalgia, traditional art forms, and geometry, reflecting a deep engagement with Moroccan cultural roots. Others took a more introspective approach, delving into human nature, temperament, ego, and expression, with one artist focusing on morphopsychology to explore the human condition. Another piece offered a sociopsychological perspective on everyday emotions and experiences.
An investment in Morocco’s cultural future
The Banque Populaire Foundation’s residency program is more than just an exhibition—it’s a platform for young Moroccan artists to present their skills, innovative ideas, and unique voices to the public. The Bank’s continued support of these programs demonstrates a deep commitment to fostering Morocco’s artistic landscape, giving young talent the resources, guidance, and public exposure they need to thrive.
