Tetouan Modern Art Center | Tetouan

The Tetouan Modern Art Center (Centro de Arte Moderno de Tétouan) is a significant cultural institution in Tetouan, Morocco, dedicated to the promotion and preservation of modern and contemporary art. The center is housed in a historic building with a unique architectural blend of Moroccan and Spanish influences. Here's a more detailed exploration of the center:

History and Architecture

Architectural Design: The center is located in a former railway station designed by Spanish architect Julio Rodríguez Roda in 1918. The building is a fine example of "New Arab" architectural style, characterized by a combination of Moroccan and Spanish architectural elements. This style was popular in northern Morocco during the colonial era, symbolizing the blend of European and local traditions.

Building's Transformation: Originally serving as the railway station linking Tetouan to Ceuta, the station closed down in the mid-20th century. The building was later repurposed and underwent extensive renovation in the early 2000s to become the Tetouan Modern Art Center. The renovation was a joint effort between the Moroccan Ministry of Culture and the Junta de Andalucía, preserving the building's historical significance while adapting it for contemporary use.

Collections and Exhibitions

Permanent Collection: The Tetouan Modern Art Center features four exhibition halls dedicated to modern and contemporary art. The collection showcases the evolution of Moroccan art from the 20th century to the present day. The center houses over 200 paintings and 19 sculptures, representing the artistic movements and individual styles that have influenced Morocco’s visual arts scene.

Notable Artists: The center features works by several noteworthy artists, including:

Mariano Bertuchi, a Spanish artist who founded the Tetouan Fine Arts Preparatory School in 1945, which greatly influenced the development of modern art in Morocco.

Joan Miró, a world-renowned Catalan artist, whose works have been displayed in the center as part of international cultural exchanges.

Contemporary Moroccan Artists: The center also highlights the work of contemporary Moroccan artists, such as Hassan Echair, Safaa Erruas, Faisal Benkiran, and Abdelkarim Ouazani, representing a range of artistic styles from the 1980s to the present.

Temporary Exhibitions: In addition to its permanent collection, the center regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, allowing local and international artists to showcase their work. These exhibitions feature a wide variety of artistic mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and installation art.

Visitor Experience

Educational Programs: The center is not just an exhibition space but also a cultural hub. It offers various educational programs, including art workshops, artist talks, and literary events, which are open to the public. These programs aim to engage the community and provide insight into both Moroccan and international art scenes.

Cultural Events: The Tetouan Modern Art Center regularly hosts cultural events, including film screenings, music performances, and lectures. These events enhance the center's role in the cultural life of Tetouan and provide a platform for cultural exchange.

Engagement with Local Artists: The center serves as a space for local artists to exhibit their work, fostering a supportive environment for the development of modern art in Morocco. It also works to connect young artists with the global art community, offering them the opportunity to engage with international artistic trends.

Visitor Information

Location: The Tetouan Modern Art Center is situated on Avenue Al Massira, one of the city's central roads, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city, including the historic Medina of Tetouan.

Opening Hours:

Tuesday to Saturday: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Sunday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Monday: Closed

Admission Fee: The general admission fee is approximately 10 MAD (Moroccan Dirhams), making it an affordable cultural destination for visitors.

Facilities: The center is equipped with modern facilities, including a bookshop with art-related publications, a cafe, and public restrooms.

How to Get There

From the Medina: The Tetouan Modern Art Center is a short distance from the Medina (the old town). You can walk from Place Hassan II, the main square, to Avenue Al Massira, then turn left. The center is located on the right-hand side.

By Taxi: If you're taking a taxi, simply ask the driver to take you to the Tetouan Modern Art Center or provide the address, and the ride should take around 5-10 minutes from the Medina.

By Public Transport: The center is accessible by local bus services that travel along Avenue Al Massira. There are bus stops close to the center, and it’s a short walk from the nearest stop.

Cultural and Artistic Impact

Promoting Moroccan Art: The Tetouan Modern Art Center plays a vital role in promoting modern Moroccan art. It offers local artists a platform to showcase their work and contributes to the overall cultural development of the city. The center's exhibitions reflect the diversity of artistic expressions in Morocco, from traditional techniques to contemporary styles.

International Connections: Through its international exhibitions and collaborations, the center fosters connections between Moroccan artists and the global art community. It helps raise awareness of Moroccan contemporary art on the international stage, contributing to the cultural exchange between Morocco and other countries.

Architectural Heritage: The building itself is an important example of Morocco's architectural evolution. It symbolizes the blending of European colonial influences with traditional Moroccan design, making it a significant historical and cultural site in Tetouan.

Conclusion

The Tetouan Modern Art Center is an essential cultural destination for anyone interested in exploring modern Moroccan art and the city's rich artistic heritage. Its combination of historical architecture, diverse collections, and cultural programming makes it a dynamic space for both art lovers and the general public. Whether you're viewing contemporary exhibitions or participating in educational activities, the center provides an immersive experience in Tetouan's thriving artistic scene.