Venice Biennale 2026: Aziz Akhannouch Inaugurates the Morocco Pavilion
Inauguration of Morocco’s Pavilion at the 61st International Art Exhibition of the Venice Biennale 2026
Under the esteemed directives of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, the Head of Government, Aziz Akhannouch, officially inaugurated Morocco’s Pavilion at the 61st International Art Exhibition of the Venice Biennale 2026 on Friday.
This participation represents a significant step in enhancing the cultural prominence of the Kingdom on the international artistic stage, showcasing a project that highlights the richness of Morocco’s heritage alongside the nation’s contemporary creativity.
An Official Delegation to Represent the Kingdom
During the inauguration, Aziz Akhannouch was joined by a prominent delegation that included the Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication, Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, the President of the National Museums Foundation, Mehdi Qotbi, Morocco’s Ambassador to Rome, Youssef Balla, and the Commissioner of the Moroccan Pavilion, Mohamed Benyacoub.
The delegation toured the national pavilion located in the heart of the historic Arsenale site, one of the most iconic venues of the Venice Biennale.
The “Asǝṭṭa” Project Represents Morocco in Venice
This year, the Moroccan Pavilion hosts the artistic project "Asǝṭṭa," led by artist Amina Agueznay and curator Meryem Berrada. This work illuminates the plural richness of Moroccan heritage through a contemporary approach that valorizes artisanal know-how as tools for narration and artistic expression.
The project aligns seamlessly with the overarching theme of this Biennale edition, titled “In Minor Keys.”
A Selection from a National Call for Projects
The Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication issued a call for projects for the design and execution of the Moroccan Pavilion exhibition.
This initiative attracted participation from 29 submissions involving Moroccan artists and curators. The chosen project was selected following deliberations by a jury chaired by Mehdi Qotbi.
Highlighting Moroccan Artistic Creation on the International Scene
Morocco’s participation in this 61st edition of the Venice Biennale serves as an international showcase for Moroccan artistic creation.
It offers the Kingdom an opportunity to promote the diversity of its contemporary cultural scene while engaging in major global artistic discussions regarding transformations and innovations in contemporary art.
The Venice Biennale: An Unmissable Global Art Event
Founded in 1895, the Venice Biennale is regarded as one of the most prestigious artistic events in the world. Held biennially, alternating with the Architecture Biennale, it brings together artists, curators, and cultural institutions from across the globe.
Morocco’s presence at this event reaffirms the country’s commitment to strengthening its international cultural influence and showcasing the richness of its contemporary artistic heritage.
