Divisorias de Vidro is a unique project which brings together members of the Vidro culture, Moroccan art and visual culture, and the legacy of the Netherlands. The project began in 2021, with the founding of the "Het Volk's Het Nieuws Zeehelden" (Het Nieuws oproliek, Netherlands) to present the highly innovative and challenging work of artists in a single national platform. The aim of the organization is to present the very best of what these artists have to offer through a highly diversified range of artistic mediums, from traditional art exhibitions, DVD projects, and audio-visual events, to participatory works and artistic interventions in various spaces and public areas. The artistic output is therefore, as varied as the cultures and communities involved, and includes a wide variety of multimedia presentations.
Divisorias de vidro em jundiai translates into "Vidro's Dance", a celebration of the traditional dance tradition prevalent among the Moroccan people, and also gives a detailed description of the process of making the tradition a living, breathing art form in one of the oldest countries of Europe. The festival is organized in honor of the late artist, Vincent Osprey, whose work is widely appreciated not only by art enthusiasts in Europe, but throughout the world as well. The importance of the work of Osprey can hardly be overstated, having been displayed in numerous exhibitions and spaces, and received multiple awards at major contemporary art events.
Divisorias de Vidro Em Jundiai is a joint project between the Moroccan and Dutch organisations, created in tribute to the late Vincent Osprey. This initiative follows in the footsteps of the "Nieuwspruit naad een landel" (Nieuwspruit festival), held in 1998, which showcased the work of local artists alongside Dutch artists. The aim of the present event, however, is to introduce the Moroccan arts to the rest of the world, with an emphasis on presenting the tradition as an art movement in its own right, rather than simply using it as a pastime or tourist attraction.
Divisorias de Vidro Em Jundiai retains much of the traditions and customs associated with the tradition of Divisorias de Gestalt. The opening ceremony was led by King Mohammed VI, followed by traditional dancing, poetry readings, prayers, traditional foods and drinks. Throughout the evening a fire was lit in the middle of the square, symbolising the sacrifice that the deceased had made for his people. Participants then performed traditional dancing, taking turns leading the music. At the conclusion of the evening, guests were invited to celebrate with dancers from both sides of the country, before being led back to their accommodation.
Divisorias de Vidro Em Jundiai shares many of the traditions of the traditional Moroccan dances. However, it also has its own unique, colourful and modern interpretation of the tradition. Most guests are taken on a procession through the streets of Marrakech, accompanied by musicians and dancers, while a candle-light dinner is laid on the funeral pyre of the deceased. At the end of the procession, celebratory firework shows and dance performances are carried out, as the guests make their way home. A special traditional dinner is laid on the funeral pyre as a family reunion, with special guests invited to dine with the deceased.
For international visitors, Divisorias de Vidro Em Jundiai can be a particularly rewarding and inspirational experience. Marrakech is the cultural capital of Morocco, and the evening event offers an insight into the rich history and heritage of the country's African heritage. In addition to the traditional parade, participants are also treated to a ceremony where their photograph is taken and presented to family members, friends and acquaintances. For international guests who wish to take advantage of this unique cultural event, booking online ahead of time is the best option.
