Water Matters 

7th Edition of the International Artists Gathering of Fez


One of the most pressing challenges we face today is the water crisis. According to the United Nations, over 2 billion people live in countries experiencing water stress, and this number is expected to increase due to climate change, population growth, and unsustainable water management practices. This crisis not only affects public health but also has significant implications for food security, economic development, and environmental sustainability.


Morocco is not immune to these challenges. The country has been suffering from drought since the 1980s and is one of the most water-stressed nations in the world, according to the World Bank. Morocco’s per capita water availability has decreased dramatically in recent years, posing a significant threat to agriculture, a vital part of the Moroccan economy. Innovative solutions and increased public awareness are urgently needed to address these water-related issues. Art, as a powerful medium of expression and education, can play a crucial role in raising awareness and inspiring action to tackle these critical challenges, both globally and locally.

The Fez Gathering, a multi-day public event, will delve into the profound connection between art, culture, and the pressing global challenge of water preservation. This year’s theme will highlight how artistic expression can significantly contribute to raising awareness about the critical importance of water management, resources, and the cultural connection to water. The Fez Gathering will serve as a platform for discussing the pivotal role of art and culture in addressing current water-related challenges. Participants will explore the potential of artistic endeavors to not only educate but also to inspire action toward the preservation of this vital resource. The event will also highlight institutions traditionally associated with water and their role in sustainable practices.

The Fez Gathering is organized by the Fez Art Lab, and supported by many partners.


About the 2024 edition

This edition of the Fez Gathering aims to transcend the notion of “art for art’s sake.” Instead, it seeks to uncover how the arts are not only shaped by but are also actively shaping external forces such as cultural heritage, markets, and ecological systems. Serving as bridges to potential futures, the arts will be at the center of a thought-provoking debate exploring inclusive and lasting water management strategies to promote sustainable development.

The city of Fez, with its intricate network of historic water infrastructure, is the ideal host for this edition of the Fez Gathering exploring water-related issues. The water system in the medina of Fez, dating back to the 9th century, is one of the oldest and most sophisticated in the world. It was designed to provide a steady and reliable supply of water to houses, public baths (hammams), mosques, and gardens, demonstrating the advanced engineering skills of the past. One of the most fascinating aspects of this system is the Water Clock, the historical timekeeping device of Fez’s 14th-century Bou Inania Medersa. Built by Marinid Sultan Abu Inan Faris, the clock was designed to serve the madrasa and its mosque.

Fez’s rich cultural and intellectual heritage provides a unique backdrop for addressing contemporary water challenges. The city’s ancient water system serves as both an inspiration and a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management. By delving into water issues in a city that has long prioritized water preservation, we aim to inspire new solutions and raise awareness about the critical importance of water in today’s world.