The Venice Biennale has existed since 1895. Some countries have had their own pavilion in Venice for more than a century. Morocco waited until 2005 to take part, and until 2026 to open a national pavilion of its own. This is the story of those 21 years.
2005: three painters, one first
It is June 2005, at the 51st Biennale. For the first time, Morocco is in Venice, the most prestigious meeting place of contemporary art. Three painters carry the country's colours, each with a very different voice: Fouad Bellamine, Fathiya Tahiri and Mohamed Bennani, known as Moa.
Until 6 November 2005, visitors from all over the world discover that Moroccan contemporary painting is not one style, but many.
Why a pavilion changes everything
Taking part is one thing. Having a national pavilion is another: a dedicated space, a commissioner, a curator and an official project chosen for the occasion. It is the difference between being invited and having your own home.
2025: the open call
In June 2025, the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication launched an open call to Moroccan artists and curators. The pavilion would have 290 square metres in the Arsenale, one of the Biennale's two historic sites. Twenty-nine proposals came in. One was chosen.
2026: Asǝṭṭa at the Arsenale
The winning project, Asǝṭṭa, is by artist Amina Agueznay with curator Meryem Berrada; the pavilion's commissioner is Mohamed Benyacoub. It turns Moroccan craft know-how into a way of telling stories, in tune with the theme of this 61st edition, In Minor Keys, which looks at practices on the margins of the great narratives of world art.
The pavilion opens from 9 May to 22 November 2026. It was officially inaugurated by the Head of Government, Aziz Akhannouch.
In short: 1895, the Biennale is born. 2005, Morocco takes part for the first time. 2026, Morocco opens its first national pavilion.
What it means for Moroccan art
A national pavilion gives Moroccan artists lasting visibility with curators, museums and collectors from around the world. It confirms what collectors in Morocco already know: the country's contemporary scene is rich, diverse and increasingly sought after. Now is a good moment to start a collection.
Discover Moroccan contemporary art
Browse original works by Moroccan artists available now, or visit our gallery, ARTWORKS in Casablanca.