Marrakech in Morocco has long been a center of artistic exchange and inspiration. The city’s rich history, vibrant colors, intricate architecture, and dynamic culture have drawn artists and intellectuals for decades. Its mix of traditional Moroccan craftsmanship—tilework, metalwork, textiles, and mosaics—alongside contemporary artistic movements, has made it an important cultural crossroads.
The city is a meeting point of Arab, Berber, and European influences, creating a dynamic blend of artistic styles and traditions. Its vibrant souks (markets) are filled with handmade goods, from intricate carpets to leatherwork, which have inspired many contemporary artists and designers.
Now tucked away behind the rose-coloured walls of the Marrakech medina, El Fenn is an oasis of a hotel "for modern travelers seeking abundance in all its forms. Developed thoughtfully and gradually over the course of the past 20 years, El Fenn prides itself as a fusion of the finest modern amenities and a deep connection to place, providing the ideal setting for guests to completely immerse in the rich, vibrant culture of Marrakech while being inspired at every turn."
El Fenn has announced it is inviting art lovers to experience an immersive, curated art weekend from January 30 to February 2, 2025, giving insider access to the best of Marrakech’s vibrant art scene during the increasingly popular 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair.
The exclusive three-night experience offers guests the opportunity to explore the dynamic local art scene like a local, meet El Fenn co-owner, gallerist, and collector Vanessa Branson, and attend the VIP preview of the Marrakech edition of the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair.
Limited to just 24 participants, this intimate weekend will kick off a series of on-going curated stays and includes a new El Fenn exhibition, alongside guided tours of the hotel’s renowned art collection, which features contemporary works by Moroccan, African, and international artists such as William Kentridge, Hassan Hajjaj, and Yto Barrada. Attendees will also have the chance to explore some of Marrakech’s most exciting galleries, including a special trip to the Montresso Foundation.
The weekend offers experiences that are both guided and self-directed, allowing participants to curate their own experience of Marrakech’s art and culture.
"I can’t wait to introduce people to the exciting art scene here in Marrakech," says El Fenn co-founder, gallerist and art collector, Vanessa Branson. "The creative energy in Africa is unique and this weekend will offer a chance for people to really experience it all.”
Bookings can be made by emailing retreats@el-fenn.com or visit El Fenn website.
About Vanessa Branson:
Vanessa opened her first gallery in London in 1986, where she showcased emerging artists, including William Kentridge’s debut exhibition in the UK. She also co-founded and curated the Wonderful Fund Collection alongside Prue O'Day, assembling nearly 100 contemporary artworks by renowned artists such as Sarah Lucas, Grayson Perry, Jake & Dinos Chapman, Tracey Emin, and Gavin Turk.
In 2004, Vanessa co-founded El Fenn with her business partner Howell James. She also served as the Founding President of the Marrakech Biennale, North Africa’s only trilingual arts festival, which featured visual art, literature, and film programmes with contributions from acclaimed international and Moroccan artists.
In October 2014, Vanessa was honored with the Royal distinction of Officer of the Order of Ouissam Alaouite, recognizing her significant contributions to Morocco’s cultural scene, particularly her role in establishing Marrakech as a vibrant and diverse platform for the arts.
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