Loft Art Gallery, based in Casablanca, made history by becoming the first Moroccan gallery to participate in Art Basel Paris from October 18 to 20, 2024. Founded in 2009 by Myriem and Yasmine Berrada Sounni, the gallery is renowned for its commitment to promoting modern and contemporary African and Moroccan art. Participation in one of the world’s most prestigious art fairs is a major achievement for both the gallery and the Moroccan art scene. Yasmine Berrada expressed her pride in gaining access to such an international platform, highlighting the opportunity to reach new collectors and broaden recognition for Moroccan artists worldwide.
For this event, Loft Art Gallery chose to honor Mohamed Melehi, an iconic figure of the Casablanca School and a pioneer of Moroccan modern art. Seven of his works, including three never-before-seen pieces, are on display, offering visitors a rare opportunity to explore his contributions to post-independence Moroccan aesthetics. Melehi, famous for his bold geometric patterns, especially his iconic wave motif, played a crucial role in shaping Moroccan modernism. This exhibition comes at a time of growing international fascination with Moroccan art, illustrated by the global recognition of artists like Hassan Hajjaj.
Beyond its role as a platform for Moroccan artists, Loft Art Gallery aims to build bridges between Morocco and the world through art. By participating in fairs on multiple continents and collaborating with international museums, it is establishing itself as a key player in the contemporary art scene. The presentation of Melehi’s works at Art Basel Paris is a testament to the rise and influence of Moroccan art, which continues to capture the attention of collectors and art lovers worldwide.