Shems’y School of Arts and Crafts, Fez

An arts school connected to the knowledge of the medina

The Shems’y School of Arts and Crafts in Fez, or EMA Shems’y, is an AMESIP initiative based in the historic medina. Opened from 2024, it was designed as a centre for training, creation and cultural presentation where performance professions meet the craft knowledge of Fez.

Its location is practical as well as symbolic. Students are close to workshops working in weaving, embroidery, leather, metal, wood and ceramics. These resources support a pedagogy that connects traditional techniques, the requirements of contemporary performance and professional opportunities.

Scenography and performance costume

The principal documented courses focus on scenography and costume-making for performance. Students develop drawing, spatial design, material selection, construction, volume, colour, research and an understanding of stage constraints. Costume is treated as a visual creation and as an object that must respond to movement, lighting and dramaturgy.

The school collaborates with partners including ENSATT Lyon, the Euro-Mediterranean University of Fez, the American Language Center and the Fès Mémoire Association. Cooperation may involve pedagogical support, placements, interdisciplinary projects, language learning and artistic heritage walks.

Residencies, exhibitions and public presentation

EMA Shems’y also defines itself as a cultural centre. It hosts artists and creators in residence and announces exhibitions, performances, concerts, lectures and round tables. Public presentations give visibility to student work and create encounters with local and international audiences.

The school complements the Kan Ya Makan Rhada Centre and can be explored alongside the Nejjarine Museum to understand continuities between heritage, manual knowledge and contemporary stage production.

Access, training and partnerships

Ordinary access depends on courses and announced activities. Exhibitions or concerts open to the public are communicated separately. Contact the school for enrolment, residencies, collaboration or professional visits.

Location: Fez Medina
Telephone: +212 5 35 63 61 22
Email: [email protected]

Browse events in Fez, cultural institutions in the city and the local guide.