Celebrating Photography and Culture
The inauguration of a groundbreaking cultural institution in Casablanca marks a significant milestone in the promotion of photography and visual arts on an international scale. This event is part of the celebration of the 200th anniversary of the invention of photography and coincides with the fifth edition of the Night of Museums and Cultural Spaces (NMEC), held under the esteemed patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. Designed by renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando, a recipient of the prestigious Pritzker Prize, this new cultural facility is the first of its kind in Africa and joins the ranks of major international museum institutions sponsored by Morocco.
Situated in the heart of the ancient medina, the building creates a harmonious dialogue between heritage and modernity. The site's historical elements have been preserved and enhanced, while the new extensions exhibit Ando's signature architectural style, characterized by the use of raw concrete and a delicate play on natural light. According to Mehdi Qotbi, president of the National Museum Foundation, the success of the project lies in its successful integration into the historical fabric of the medina. He expressed, 'What is extraordinary is that this museum, with its distinctly modern design, perfectly fits into our history and that of the ancient medina. It feels as though it has always existed here. We are very pleased that Morocco is the first country on the continent to host a work of this magnitude by Tadao Ando. It is a true source of pride for our country and for Africa.'
A Space for Artistic Interaction
Envisioned as an open space connected to the city, the museum promotes continuous interaction with its environment through a spacious glass facade that opens onto the public area. This design reflects the desire to bring culture closer to citizens and to embed the museum in the daily life of the medina. The museum's opening is marked by the inaugural exhibition titled 'CASA,' which pays tribute to Casablanca through the perspectives of Moroccan and international photographers. The title references the popular name of the metropolis and embodies the museum's intention to root itself in its territory while offering a contemporary interpretation of the city.
The exhibition explores the multiple facets of Casablanca through various generations of artists, highlighting its contrasts, transformations, urban landscapes, inhabitants, and the diverse memories that shape its identity. It features works from notable artists including Leila Alaoui, Daoud Aoulad-Syad, Lalla Essaydi, Malik Nejmi, Khalil Nemmaoui, Yoriyas, Yasmine Hatimi, Fatima Mazmouz, and many other Moroccan and international photographers. For Qotbi, this institution aims to become a reference point for photography and visual arts on the continent. 'Today, we are offering Moroccans, and indeed all Africans, an exceptional space dedicated to art, photography, and contemporary creation,' he affirmed.
Furthermore, Qotbi emphasized the vibrant dimension of the project, noting that the museum will host meetings, conferences, workshops, and cultural events aimed at increasing access to culture and fostering the emergence of new talents. Another significant indicator of the interest generated by this institution is the early support it has already begun to receive, even as the museum has just opened its doors. 'What is extraordinary is that, although the museum has just started, it has already received significant donations and contributions. Several patrons have expressed their willingness to support the museum's development,' Qotbi said enthusiastically.
He highlighted a notable contribution of 300,000 euros announced by a donor, as well as the upcoming arrival of 100 books intended to enrich the museum's documentary collections. 'This is an extremely encouraging sign. It demonstrates that this project is already seen as a cultural institution destined to play a major role in the national and international artistic landscape,' he indicated. It is noteworthy that the inauguration of this new facility is part of a broader program to revitalize the ancient medina of Casablanca, initiated under the high royal directives. Rich in history and the vibrant heart of the metropolis, the medina is undergoing significant projects aimed at enhancing its cultural, economic, and tourist appeal.
Entrusted to the National Museum Foundation following a convention signed in January 2026 with the Wilaya of Casablanca-Settat, the Casablanca-Anfa district, and the Urban Agency of Casablanca, the museum aspires to become a space for sharing and transmission, open to all generations.
As reported by laquotidienne.ma.
