Fifth Moroccan Poets Festival Concludes In Tetouan With Grand Celebrations

The Department of Culture in Sharjah, alongside the Moroccan Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication, wrapped up the fifth Moroccan Poets Festival in Tetouan. This three-day event celebrated poetry and its creators, marking eight years since the House of Poetry in Tetouan was established. Over 30 poets, intellectuals, and artists participated, creating a vibrant atmosphere of artistic expression.

The closing ceremony took place at the School of National Arts and Crafts in Tetouan. Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of the Department of Culture in Sharjah; Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qasir, Director of Cultural Affairs; Dr. Youssef Al Fehri, Head of the École Normale Supérieure in Martil; Mukhles Al Saghir, Director of the House of Poetry in Tetouan; and numerous writers, intellectuals, and university students attended.

Al Saghir emphasised this year's festival's unique nature. It brought together various artistic forms such as poetry, theatre, music, and visual art. The event served as a platform for different generations of poets. Established figures mingled with rising talents recognised by the First Diwan Award for Young Poets.

Renowned Moroccan poets captivated audiences during evening sessions and major meetings throughout the festival. The final day featured an intellectual symposium titled "Poetry... from the Creative to the Digital." This discussion delved into recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential impact on artistic creation, particularly poetry.

The festival's success highlighted the importance of fostering cultural exchange and supporting artistic endeavours. It also underscored the role that institutions like the House of Poetry play in nurturing talent and promoting literary arts.

The collaboration between Sharjah's Department of Culture and Morocco's Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication exemplifies how international partnerships can enrich cultural landscapes. Such events not only celebrate artistic achievements but also encourage dialogue between different cultures.

This year's Moroccan Poets Festival demonstrated how diverse art forms could come together to create a rich tapestry of cultural expression. By including various generations of poets, it ensured that both established voices and emerging talents were heard.

The event's focus on AI's role in poetry highlighted how technology might shape future artistic practices. This exploration is crucial as it opens new avenues for creativity while preserving traditional forms.

Overall, the fifth edition of the Moroccan Poets Festival was a testament to the enduring power of poetry and its ability to bring people together across generations and cultures. The event successfully combined tradition with innovation, offering a glimpse into the future of poetic expression.

With inputs from WAM