Moroccan animation is making its international debut at the Venice Biennale. Initiated by the Moroccan Cinematographic Center (CCM), with support from the Annecy Festival and CITIA, a dedicated panel at the Venice Production Bridge showcased the growing dynamism of this emerging sector. Titled «When Moroccan Animation Shapes Global Imaginaries, Cultural Treasure to Share», this first-ever international panel devoted exclusively to Moroccan animation brought together global experts to spotlight the country's rising talents and creative ambitions. Ali Rguigue, Director of Artcoustic, described animation as «a bridge between cultures», adding that Morocco has now «crossed a historic milestone». As the supervising body, the CCM plays a pivotal role in this evolution, particularly through its strategic partnership with Annecy and CITIA. The panel also served as «a showcase for flagship productions that embody the vitality and diversity of Moroccan animation», including Tourat Al Maghrib and Les Marocains du ciel from Artcoustic studios. Among the highlighted works was Harun & Mamun by Jihane Joypaul, a handcrafted stop-motion short with a poetic touch, and L'Ombre des papillons by Sofia El Khiyari, which «unfolds a sensitive and dreamlike universe already recognized on the international scene». «Together, these works convey the richness of an imagination rooted in Moroccan culture while reaching out to global audiences», the organizers noted. This participation, they added, «confirms Morocco's place in the international animation ecosystem» and reflects a broader national ambition to promote cultural creativity and «contribute to global visual storytelling». Morocco's debut at the Biennale also opens new avenues for international partnerships, underscoring «the vitality of a sector that aspires to become both a cultural and economic driver».
