Clôture à Alger du premier Symposium international algérien de la Sculpture
Summary of the First International Algerian Sculpture Symposium
The inaugural International Algerian Sculpture Symposium concluded on a high note in Algiers, featuring a significant sculpture exhibition dedicated to "Memory." This event took place in the presence of the Minister of Culture and Arts, Zouhir Ballalou, alongside influential figures from the cultural and economic sectors and students from Algeria’s National and Regional Schools of Fine Arts.
Held from April 26 to May 8 at the outdoor space of the Hotel Mazafran in Zeralda, the symposium celebrated the dual commemorations of the 70th anniversary of Algeria’s War of Independence and the National Memory Day on May 8. Over a period of two weeks, the event included outdoor workshops that brought together established Algerian sculptors and artists from 18 different countries, alongside young students who worked collaboratively on monumental sculptures focused on themes of memory and Algerian history.
In his closing remarks, Minister Ballalou emphasized the importance of this event, which was organized by the association "Tifastis pour la Culture et l’Identité." He noted that it aligns with state initiatives aimed at enhancing Algeria’s cultural and artistic presence on the international stage. The minister praised the contributions of the students who, through participation in substantial works, gained invaluable experience and practical skills in sculpture while engaging with their more experienced counterparts.
Throughout the symposium, each artist aimed to articulate key aspects of Algeria’s memory, recounting the valor and sacrifices of its martyrs, the resilience of its people, and the determination of its youth against the horrors of colonialism. Ballalou remarked that the artistic expressions derived from the struggles for independence would create connections between the past and present while serving as a form of cultural diplomacy.
Taher Hedhoud, the event’s commissioner, remarked on the symposium’s success, describing it as a foundational act to elevate Algeria’s cultural and historical heritage. He expressed satisfaction with the international participation, which included artists from countries such as Palestine, Italy, Egypt, China, Syria, Germany, Tunisia, Jordan, the USA, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Kuwait.
Minister Ballalou visited the workshop area, transformed into an exhibition space for the occasion, to review the works and engage with artists on their creative inspirations and concepts. The closing ceremony featured musical performances by the Algerian Symphony Orchestra and Choir, directed by maestros Lotfi Saïdi and Zouhir Mazari, offering a repertoire of universal music and patriotic songs.
The closing event was organized in collaboration with companies like the National Mining Research and Exploitation Company (Sonarem) and the Hotel Mazafran, represented by their respective leaders, M. Belkacem Soltani and M. Nour El Yamine Dekir. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of honorary awards to the participating artists.
