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Artists Converge in Historic Fez to Address Global Water Crisis Through Creative Expression

Artists Converge in Historic Fez to Address Global Water Crisis Through Creative Expression
Thursday 17 - 10:50
Zoom

The historic city of Fez, Morocco, is set to host its 7th Annual International Artists Gathering from October 30 to November 3, with a powerful focus on water conservation and cultural heritage. Under the theme "Water Matters," the event will bring together artists, academics, and cultural enthusiasts from around the world to explore the critical intersection of artistic expression and environmental stewardship.

The gathering takes place against the backdrop of escalating global water challenges, with over 2 billion people residing in water-stressed nations. Morocco itself has grappled with drought conditions since the 1980s, ranking among the world's most water-challenged countries.

Fez provides an especially poignant setting for these discussions, boasting one of the world's oldest and most sophisticated water systems, dating back to the 9th century. The city's ancient medina, with its intricate network of water infrastructure, serves as a living testament to the historical significance of water management and the pressing need for conservation efforts.

The event will showcase an impressive roster of international talent, including German visual artist Philip Kojo Metz, French pianist and composer Mélodie Gimard, Spanish dancer Marti Corbera, and local craftsman Hamza El Fasiki. These artists will contribute their unique perspectives on how creative expression can address water-related challenges while fostering meaningful dialogue about environmental and cultural preservation.

Omar Chennafi, the gathering's founder and a Fez native, established the event in 2015 to transcend traditional artistic boundaries and promote engagement with pressing social issues. This year's edition builds upon the success of previous gatherings, including last year's focus on gentrification and cultural heritage.

In keeping with its inclusive spirit, the gathering will be free and open to the public, with proceedings shared across social media platforms to engage a global audience. Through this approach, the event aims to demonstrate how art can serve as a powerful medium for raising awareness about environmental challenges while celebrating and preserving cultural heritage.

The gathering represents a significant shift from conventional artistic showcases, emphasizing the role of creative expression in addressing real-world challenges. By uniting diverse voices from around the globe, the event seeks to inspire innovative solutions to water conservation while highlighting the intrinsic connection between environmental stewardship and cultural preservation.


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