Filipino Artists Lead Lecture and Art Workshop for University Students in Morocco

The Philippine Embassy in Rabat, in collaboration with KUNST, recently organized an art lecture and workshop at the Université Internationale de Rabat as part of its cultural diplomacy program. The event, held on 03 May 2024, aimed to celebrate National Heritage Month and promote Filipino art and culture to the Moroccan audience.

Renowned Filipino art impresario, Mr. Virgilio Cuizon, delivered an engaging lecture on the history of Philippine visual arts, emphasizing the significant contributions of Filipino artists to the impressionist movement. He introduced the concept of “Filipinism” to the students, highlighting the unique expression of Filipino identity through art.

Following the lecture, a workshop was conducted by visiting Filipino artists Lerma Julian, Eric Punzalan, Frederick Epistola, Doy Kastilyo, and Yelcast. Participants, including members of the university art club, eagerly learned drawing and coloring techniques using oil pastel and felt paper. Mr. Cuizon encouraged the students to create artwork reflecting their values and Moroccan identity.

One participant drew a teapot symbolizing her childhood memories and Moroccan heritage. As a gesture of appreciation, souvenir artworks were presented to all participants by the Filipino artists.

The artists are in Morocco for the upcoming Viaje 3 Filipinism What Makes Art Filipino exhibition at the Abla Ababou Gallery in Rabat from 6 to 15 May 2024. This exhibition marks the first showcase of Asian artists at the gallery since its establishment in 2017, further strengthening cultural ties between the Philippines and Morocco.