A creative workshop was held at the Iklyle Cultural Centre in Tetouan with students and artists taking part in an arts-based session.

A statement from Government follows below:

The Iklyle Cultural Centre in Tetouan recently hosted an inspiring creative workshop led by Mark Montovio, sculptor and Project Co-ordinator for the Ministry for Developing Relations with the Kingdom of Morocco. The event attracted a diverse audience of artists, students, and creative practitioners, providing a valuable opportunity for artistic exchange and dialogue between participants from different backgrounds and disciplines. 

Among those attending were students from the prestigious Fine Arts School of Tetouan, which this year celebrates the 80th anniversary of its establishment. Widely recognised as Morocco's leading institution for fine arts education, the school has played a pivotal role in shaping generations of artists and continues to be a cornerstone of the country's cultural and artistic landscape. 

During the workshop, Mark Montovio shared a selection of images from his recent exhibition 'CorUtero', offering participants an insight into the themes, materials, and creative processes that inform his practice as a sculptor. He discussed a range of techniques and approaches, reflecting on the importance of experimentation, personal narrative, and the relationship between concept and form in contemporary art. 

Rather than focusing solely on technical skills, the workshop encouraged participants to explore ideas and experiences that held personal significance. Attendees were invited to create work that resonated with them individually, drawing on their own memories, emotions, identities, and cultural influences. This approach generated thoughtful discussion and resulted in a wide range of responses that reflected the diversity and creativity of the group. 

The workshop was characterised by a high level of engagement, with participants actively contributing throughout the session, sharing ideas, and reflecting on the creative process. The exchange of perspectives between established artists, emerging practitioners, and students created a dynamic learning environment that highlighted the value of collaboration and intercultural dialogue. 

The Minister with responsibility for developing relations with Morocco welcomed the success of the workshop as another example of the growing cultural connections between Gibraltar and Morocco. Minister John Cortes said: "By bringing together artists and students from both sides of the Strait, the initiative provided an opportunity to share knowledge, inspire creativity, and strengthen relationships through the universal language of art. The event further reinforced the importance of cultural collaboration in fostering mutual understanding and demonstrated the enthusiasm that exists for creative exchanges between Gibraltar and Morocco. Through workshops such as this, participants are able not only to develop their artistic practice but also to build meaningful connections that transcend geographical boundaries".