Morocco continues to inspire me as an artist.
The country is home to some of the world's finest traditional craftsmanship, where architecture, carved plaster, woodwork, stone, textiles and geometric design are still created by highly skilled artisans. Places such as the Royal Mansour demonstrate what is possible when centuries of craftsmanship are preserved and celebrated.
Royal Mansour Casablanca is part of the Royal Mansour hotel collection, owned by the Moroccan Royal Family. The hotel reflects a long-term commitment to preserving Morocco's architectural heritage and traditional craftsmanship. From carved plasterwork and geometric ornament to handcrafted wood and stone, local master artisans have played a central role in creating an environment where luxury is expressed through skill, patience and material excellence rather than excess.
As an artist, I find this dedication to material, structure and patience deeply inspiring.
At the same time, Morocco is also part of an ongoing humanitarian story that extends far beyond architecture. In recent days, thousands of migrants have attempted to reach the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, many believing they would be able to enter Europe more easily after misleading information spread through social media and smuggling networks. Tragically, lives have already been lost during these dangerous crossings. The situation is complex, involving humanitarian, political and economic factors.
For me, these two realities exist side by side.
One speaks of human creativity.
The other reminds us of human vulnerability.
As artists, architects and designers, we should continue to celebrate craftsmanship while never forgetting the value of human life.
- Pieter Lategan | 1 August 2026 - Pretoria South Africa
Morocco Today - From Royal Mansour Craftsmanship to the Spain Migration Crisis | 1 August 2026
A brief news report documenting the humanitarian situation at the Morocco–Spain border. This video follows my study of Morocco's remarkable architectural heritage, reminding us that every country holds many different human stories.
Video source: TikTok – The Times. Shared for commentary and discussion.
Great architecture preserves memory. Great craftsmanship preserves culture. Compassion preserves humanity.
Page 216
Archive Number:
PL-SB-RN-2026-0808-216
Title:
Handwritten Notes by Pieter Lategan - Royal Mansour Casablanca Hotel, Morocco
Page 217
Archive Number:
PL-SB-RN-2026-0808-217
Title:
Handwritten Notes by Pieter Lategan - Morocco, Migration and Human Stories
Continue Exploring This Study
My interest in Morocco also inspired one of my own artistic figure studies.
Moroccan Priest | Pieter Lategan - 2026
This project explores posture, structure, quiet presence and the foundations of my developing practice of Quiet / Silent Monumentalism.
To continue exploring the study | click here
Explore my wider research into Moroccan art, architecture and craftsmanship | click here
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