The Shems'y School of Crafts
''A crossroads of culture and creation''
A unique place where tradition inspires innovation
The Shems'y School of Crafts in Fez (EMA Shems'y), which will open in October 2024, is a center of excellence dedicated to the transmission of artistic and cultural know-how located in the historic medina of Fez, a jewel of the UNESCO World Heritage.
A true cultural center, our school is distinguished by its integrated approach to cultural training, creation, and dissemination.
We are committed to providing world-class arts education while promoting social inclusion. We firmly believe that art is a tool for social transformation and a powerful lever for the personal and professional development of young people.
Our mission: educate, create, share
At the Shems'y School of Crafts in Fez, we offer a unique pedagogical approach, combining tradition and innovation, to train the artists and craftsmen of tomorrow.
Formation
The EMA Shems'y offers specialized practical and theoretical training in the fields of scenography and the realization of show costumes. Our goal is to provide apprentices with comprehensive training that combines technique and creativity. We effectively prepare our apprentices to enter the craft market by cultivating their artistic sensibility while integrating traditional Moroccan know-how and modern practices.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
registrations for the 2024/2025 school year are open!
Information and registration: amesip.ema@gmail.com
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Creation
The EMA Shems'y is a real artistic laboratory where local and international creators meet to innovate together. We host artist and creator residencies, offering a collaborative workspace where traditional Moroccan craftsmanship blends with contemporary creativity.
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Diffusion
As a cultural centre, we regularly organise exhibitions, shows, concerts, lectures and round tables. These events promote the works of our apprentices and residents, while introducing new talent to a diverse and international audience.
Our values:
inclusion, innovation, diversity
We place the following values at the heart of our approach:
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Inclusion
To welcome and train young people from various backgrounds, with priority given to those in precarious situations, offering them opportunities for social and professional reintegration through art.
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Innovation inspired by tradition
Integrating traditional Moroccan know-how with contemporary approaches to push the boundaries of artistic creation.
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Cultural diversity
To promote a space for meetings and dialogues between cultures, both locally and internationally.
International partnerships and collaborations
The Shems’y School of Arts and Crafts in Fez benefits from strategic partnerships with renowned institutions that enrich our educational approach and open up international perspectives to our apprentices.
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National School of Theatre Arts and Techniques of Lyon (ENSATT)
By joining forces, EMA Shems’y and ENSATT, a renowned French institution in the field of theatre arts and techniques, are working together to enrich artistic training. This partnership includes educational support by ENSATT managers and hosting students for internships at EMA Shems’y. This collaboration promotes cultural and academic exchange, strengthens students’ skills and contributes to the professionalization of young artists.
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American Language Center of Fez (ALC)
As part of the English Teaching Internship Initiative (ETII) program, ALC and EMA Shems’y are collaborating to improve access to language education. This partnership trains Moroccan students with a bachelor’s degree in English literature to become English language trainers, while providing free training to those who do not have access to learning English. Actions include intensive training sessions for future trainers and free courses for learners, aimed at strengthening language skills within the community.
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Euro-Mediterranean University of Fez (UEMF)
EMA Shems’y and UEMF are joining forces to promote interdisciplinarity between the fields of crafts and architecture. By combining the expertise of both institutions, this partnership develops joint projects, strengthens students’ practical skills and promotes innovation. This collaboration enriches students’ training by offering them unique interdisciplinary perspectives.
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Fez Memory Association
For several years, ''Fez Memory Association'', in collaboration with the Kan Ya Makan Center, has organized the Heritage Days to promote the historical and cultural heritage of Fez. For the 2025 edition, EMA Shems’y is participating by implementing the “New Look at My City” project, which will offer artistic and cultural walks to provide an immersive and enriching experience to participants. This collaboration aims to stimulate community engagement and present the heritage of Fez from an innovative perspective.
Why collaborate with the Shems’y School of Arts and Crafts in Fez ?
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To enrich your productions
Integrate unique creations into your shows, fruits of the encounter between Moroccan tradition and contemporary innovation.
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To explore new creative opportunities
Participate in artistic residencies in a stimulating environment, where your teams can collaborate with local talents.
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Access unique resources
EMA Shems’y is located at the crossroads of Arab, Berber and Andalusian influences. This position offers access to high-quality crafts: weaving, embroidery, leather, copperware, ceramics, etc. that can enrich your creations in an authentic and inspiring way.
We would be delighted to exchange with you and explore new creative avenues together.
Contact us:
If you are interested in training, collaboration, artistic residency or any other form of partnership, do not hesitate to contact us.
Email: amesip.ema@gmail.com