The Museum of African Contemporary Art Al Maaden (MACAAL) in Marrakech is poised for a transformative new chapter, following a landmark investment from its founder, Fondation Alliances. The museum has announced an array of significant developments, including the unveiling of a permanent exhibition space dedicated to one of the world’s most comprehensive collections of contemporary African art. This enhanced offering is set to debut on February 2, 2025, alongside revamped gallery spaces and enriched visitor experiences.
A Permanent Home for a Historic Collection
The inaugural permanent exhibition, Seven Contours, One Collection, will mark the first dedicated display of MACAAL’s esteemed collection, meticulously assembled by the Lazraq family over four decades. Showcasing more than 150 works that will rotate over time, the exhibition spans a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, textiles, photography, installations, and multimedia. Drawn from the museum’s broader collection of over 2,500 pieces, the exhibition celebrates the depth of African creativity and its global impact from the 20th century to today.
Organized into themed galleries, the exhibition will delve into critical topics such as decolonization, globalization, and environmental change. The works of prominent artists like Joël Andrianomearisoa, Hassan Hajjaj, Abdoulaye Konaté, and Billie Zangewa will be displayed alongside Moroccan modernist trailblazers like Farid Belkahia and Chaïbia Talal. Each gallery will integrate perspectives from influential academics, including Nadia Yala Kisukidi and Ariella Aïsha Azoulay, fostering fresh dialogues and interpretations.
Curated by Morad Montazami and Madeleine de Colnet in collaboration with MACAAL’s Artistic Director, Meriem Berrada, the redesigned exhibition space has been envisioned by acclaimed scenographer Franck Houndégla.
Expanding Artistic Horizons
MACAAL’s vision extends beyond its galleries with plans to commission two annual site-specific installations. In 2025, monumental works by Salima Naji and Aïcha Snoussi will enrich the museum’s evolving spaces. Additionally, a new Artist Room will spotlight solo and group exhibitions, beginning with a show by French-Moroccan artist Sara Ouhaddou.
The museum’s commitment to fostering community engagement will also expand, with residencies, workshops, and a redesigned café and terrace area to enhance visitor experiences. New green spaces adorned with sculptures will provide a serene complement to the museum’s bustling artistic program.
Enhanced Educational Resources
MACAAL’s upcoming Timeline Room will offer a curated exploration of key historical and cultural moments across Africa, creating a compelling link between historical events and artistic milestones. Furthermore, the launch of the New Media Library (BNM) will provide an unparalleled archive of video, sound, and performance art by African artists from the 1990s onward. A contemporary art-focused open library will further enrich the museum’s educational offerings, cementing its role as a hub for research and discovery.
A Bold Step Forward
“These developments mark an exciting new chapter for MACAAL,” said Othman Lazraq, President of MACAAL and Fondation Alliances. “For almost a decade, the museum has been a platform for fostering global appreciation of Africa’s artistic heritage. Our expanded offerings will deepen accessibility and bring more artists, stories, and conversations to the forefront. It’s a privilege to share this collection with local, regional, and international audiences.”
With its bold new initiatives, MACAAL is set to reaffirm its place as a dynamic, globally respected institution dedicated to celebrating and preserving African contemporary art.
For more information, visit macaal.org.
