NEWS

Azerbaijani opera singers Maharram Huseynov has performed a song "Ana" (Mother). The song was composed by Sevil Aliyeva on the lyrics of Fikrat Goja.

The opera singer was accomponied by pianist Vurgun Vakilov (piano). The music video was shot by Gasan Seyidbayli and Faraj Seyidbayli ( Black & Black Studio), sound director-  Vahid Talybov. 

Maharram's voice touches the deepest feelings in the human heart. Maharram Huseynov made his debut on the stage of the Roman Opera House in "Cinderella" opera by Gioacchino Rossini, where he performed the part of Dandini.

His name was added to the "Golden Book" of young talents of Azerbaijan in 2011. In 2017, Maharram Huseynov became the youngest soloist, who appeared in the role of Don Juan.

His incredible talent didn't go unnoticed by the state. In February, the opera singer received the Azerbaijan Youth Award.

Hot summer days are the perfect time to grab a glass and treat yourself to cooling drinks. There’s a great variety of drinks in Azerbaijan that play on the summer flavors.

If you're looking for colorful, fresh, fruity drinks that are refreshing and perfect for summer, try this delicious beverage.

No storebought drink can compare to a sweet sharbat made at home. It's cool, refreshing, and filled with delicious fruit flavors.

This mouthwatering drink could be enjoyed by kids and adults alike.

Sharbat, a symbol of celebration, is usually consumed at weddings, dinner parties and similar events.

This beverage is made from fruits like pomegranate, apricot, quince, orange as well as rose petals (ovshala), milk, basil, mint, saffron, and sumakh.

Rose sharbat is a must for a hot summer day. This sharbat is made of rose oil, sugar, basil or mint seeds.

Summer would not be summer without lemon sharbat, which is made of lemon, saffron, basil or coriander seeds, ice and water. When the drink is ready, add saffron tincture and ice. To prepare saffron tincture, soak the saffron in boiled and cooled water for 6-8 hours. Cardamom can be used instead of basil seeds. It gives more flavor and delicacy to the taste.

Apricot sherbet is a fantastic cocktail that boost your mood in hot summer days.

This kind of sharbat is made of sugar, dried apricots, water and ice. The beverage is served with swollen apricots on a separate plate.  Apricot sherbet has a therapeutic and prophylactic effect and reduces high blood pressure.

Fresh saffron Sherbet is sure to get you in the mood for some fun. This recipe includes saffron, sugar, basil or mint seeds.

There are many other summer drink recipes in Azerbaijan  to try this summer.

Good news for Azerbaijani animation artists!

A new award for category “Best Azerbaijani Short Animated Film” has been established for the upcoming ANIMAFILM Festival in cooperation with the French Embassy in Azerbaijan, the French Institute in Azerbaijan (IFA) and with the support of the Annecy International Animated Film Festival.

This year`s winner of the ANIMAFILM Festival has a chance to attend Annecy Festival 2020 in France and receive professional MIFA accreditation. Return flight to France and accommodation of the winner will be covered by IFA.

Moreover, ANIMAFILM will also delight animation artists with another award for the “Best Azerbaijani Screenplay for a Short Animated Film” in partnership with Delegation of the European Union to Azerbaijan

The winner will be awarded with a valuable photo camera. The screenplay should be linked to one of the following themes: diversity, tolerance, multiculturalism, human rights, women rights or climate change.

Deadline for applications: 30.06.2020

For more information, please visit: ANIMAFILM

Notably the third ANIMAFILM Festival will be held in two cities of Azerbaijan, Baku and Sheki on October 14-18.  

The festival is supported by the Azerbaijan Ministry of Culture, Sheki City Executive Power, Azerbaijan Union of Film-makers, Embassy of the Czech Republic to Azerbaijan, Embassy of France in Azerbaijan, French Institute in Azerbaijan, Nizami Cinema Center, Mujru Publishing, Barat Abdullayev and other partners and sponsors.

YARAT Contemporary Art Space is pleased to announce the group exhibition "I Might Be Staring at Infinity (or the backs of my own eyelids)" at Virtual ARTIM Project Space with works by Leyli Ahmadova, Murad Akbarli, Aghababa Baghirov, Natig Asgar, Kateryna Bortsova, You Open a Box (Art Collective), Joshua Dyson, Lukasz Horbow, Laura Ige, Nathan M. Collis, Martina Morger, Rehan Miskci, Forough Noei, Florian Nitsch, Jay Rechsteiner, Gafar Rzayev, Nadya Sayapina, Julia Smirnova, Aline Schwibbe, Pudji Utomo, Nina Traub &Lukas Zerbst.

Exhibition dates: May 22 – August 22

Music set by AYAZ

Location: Virtual ARTIM Project Space

More information: www.yarat.az; (+994)50 246 9292

Please find the instructions below to visit the show:

Instructions

To access the show you need a PC with a Microsoft system (access for MAC books is in process and will be possible in a short time). The app is only working on computers, but not phones, tablets etc.

Access to the exhibition:

• Download App

• Unzip folder

• Drop the folder to desktop

• Open Vriendly.exe (if there appears a window with writing Microsoft do not allow run this program,

click More info, click Run anyway )

• Enter your username

• Push login button

• Create your Avatar

• Select Login

Inside the exhibition:

• You can talk and interact with other people

• If you want to see the video works, go closer to the projection wall and it will appear

• To move further use W button, to turn around use mouse or trackpad, or Q & E buttons

• To hear the sound, press the headphone icon

• To get more information on the artworks, press info-icon

Exit the exhibition:

• Press right mouse pad for some seconds

• Settings window will appear

• Select Exit

Download app:

Windows: https://bit.ly/3dJ8yGf

Mac: https://bit.ly/3h4BElj

Join us in the virtual ARTIM Project Space located on a spaceship that crosses the universe; it left earth as life on the planet became impossible. You are invited to see the historical group show "I Might Be Staring at Infinity (or the backs of my own eyelids)", which reflects on the coronavirus pandemic of 2019/2020 and features different reactions of Earth's inhabitants to the extraordinary situation, recalling one of the disasters that forced humanity to seek alternatives for living. Before entering the show, you will be able to create avatars as hybrids at the intersection of artificial intelligence, machines and humans.

The title, as well as the conceptual layer of the show, loosely draws on the science fiction novel "Quarantine" (1992) by Greg Egan, set in the near future 2034-2080 when the solar system has been isolated in a bubble for unidentified reasons, causing widespread societal panic, 'claustrophobia' and terrorist action. To overcome the psychoses, advanced bio- and nanotechnology is used in which completely new possibilities such as neural mods are installed in the brain, producing a variety of effects such as particular skillsets, different emotions, and altered states of awareness but also illegal control systems. The novel aligns with theories of quantum mechanics about parallel events, the significant role of the expectations of the observer, as well as human brain wave power being able to collapse the whole system. The exhibition space reflects this metaphysical point of view; visitors are able to wander around the different emotional states, exploring varieties of possibilities that are happening in parallel among others, experience the desire to break free from controlling systems, and a final blurred state.

The featured works by emerging artists show different possible and impossible conditions and positions among the backdrop of quarantine due to the global Covid-19 crisis. Among them, a depressed, rather dark mood of loneliness triggered by isolation that found a form of artistic expression in an increasingly flowing digital and physical creativity is displayed. Likewise, voices who see virtual space as a new opportunity for experience and adventure are represented, but they also critically reflect upon artificial self-representation and question exaggerated pathetic positions on social media. Works that document the beauty of everyday life form a further level of meaning. In a humorous or documentary way, they make the trivial things of everyday life something 'special' and stimulate reflection on the enjoyment and beauty of the little things. A section is also devoted to the drama of life, which furthermore questions stereotypical representations of gender. How do our mood swings express themselves? In emotional outbursts or maybe retreat? Another level shows how a sense of community and togetherness can be created and lived in during times of isolation when, for example, artists invent forms of creative cohesion while being locked in artist-in-residences. Peace and quietness is also a parallel state, once the bed sheet becomes a flag of peace and we may find the state of harmony through a white labyrinth. On one hand, the standstill imposed from the outside causes voices of dissatisfaction, desire and gestures of rebellion. On the other hand, everyday noises are transformed into a vibrating, dissolving space that suggests infinite dimensions. It is up to us to decide what or who generated these states: our brain, an emotional mode of artificial intelligence or a matrix that can only be understood from another dimension of perception?

About ARTIM
Located in Icheri Sheher, ARTIM Project Space is directed at young artists with an intention to support and encourage emergent talent to grow. It is a platform for experimenting and professionally showcasing art. Creative young people are invited to participate in different ARTIM programs.

VRIENDLY
Vriendly is a GAAS virtual environment to transform innovation, education and the life in the future that initially focused on entrepreneurs and startups. Vriendly's infinite multi-theme rooms and 3D customized environment with specific toolkit enables users to hold effective sessions in a meaningful way. We believe that whether it is drawing and texting on a beautifully designed whiteboard, sharing, uploading and downloading files instantly through sessions or engaging with each other, it creates meaningful experience to learn and enjoy.

Icherisheher Museum Center continues to thrill art connoisseurs with unique examples of Azerbaijani art.

The Museum Center provided insight into stunning Gulabatin embroidery.

Gulabatin embroidery (goldwork) means blooming face, beautiful body. The main ornament in this embroidery sample is the image of flower made of silk gold and silver threads. A distinctive feature of this type of embroidery is the use of only one color either gold or silver threads on a black background fabric.

There are two types of gulabatin embroidery: plain and salient. In plain type, the threads are tied parallel to each other, and in salient threads are tied together very tightly, sometimes using a thicker thread.

There is information about manufactures engaging in the art of embroidery during the Safavid period, as well as the exhibits in the museums around the world.

The most striking example of those exhibits is the kaftan with goldwork embroidery gifted by Tabriz masters to the Ottoman sultan Murad III.

Prominent Azerbaijani poetess of the 19th century Khurshidbanu Natavan also made beautiful embroidery works. She gifted the famous French writer Alexandre Duma a handcrafted backpack and pouch during his visit to Baku.

The pouches of comb, mirror, seal, fan, and tobacco stored in the collection of Icherisheher Museum Center are the examples for gulabatin embroidery.

The Old City Museum Center is a structural division of the Administration of the Icherisheher State Historical-Architectural Reserve.

The Centre is open to the public with the legendary Maiden Tower, the Shirvanshahs' Palace Complex, Gala State Historical-Ethnographic Reserve Museum, Siratagli (arched -shaped) and Beyler Mosque that unites the time and the people with the feeling of love to humanity.

The Museum Center aims to introduce its own rich history, diverse culture and homeland Azerbaijan to all over the world.  

A final exhibition of the country's painting contest "Grateful" will be held online on June 12.

The exhibition reflects selflessness of health workers and all those who are working hard for the sake of society during COVID-19 pandemic.

The contest is co-organized by Azerbaijan Ministry of Culture, Azerbaijan Artists' Union, State Art Gallery and Khatai Arts Center. 

The exhibition will be available on social networks of State Art Gallery and Khatai Arts Center. 

Earlier, Azerbaijan State Art Gallery delighted art lovers with a virtual exhibition "Global message".

The exhibition aimed at protecting people from COVID-19 through original posters by Honored Artist of Azerbaijan Zaur Kantemirov.

Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum has delighted art lovers with fascinating embroidery from its "Textile, Clothing, Embroidery collection".

The 19th century Sheki wall panel is performed in a chain stitch technique on wool. A tree of life (a cypress) with peacocks on both sides adorn the embroidery's central part. Pompoms and fringes decorate the edges of this large-scale wall panel.

Earlier, the museum  provided insight into Yaloylutepe-type vessel, a sample of the Albanian period from its "Ceramics, Glass, Wood, Paper" collection. 

Ancient Yaloylutepe vessels were found in Gabala. This type of pottery is considered to be the hallmark of Albanian ceramics, since it practically does not mentioned at any other place.

Founded in 1967, Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum displays some of the best examples of the carpet weaving art.

The museum, initiated by Latif Karimov, an outstanding scientist and carpet weaver is beautiful inside and out. The new building of the Carpet Museum, designed in the form of a rolled carpet, opened in the Baku Seaside Park in 2014 and all carpets were transferred to this museum.

Today the museum hosts many events, such as exhibitions, international symposiums, and conferences.

In 2019, the museum received the national status for its significant contribution in popularization and promotion of the Azerbaijani Carpet Weaving Art.

A short film contest, co-organized by Era Theater and the Integration Center of Georgian Azerbaijanis has been completed.

From May 6 to 27, the festival received over 10 short films, the State Committee on Work with Diaspora of Azerbaijan reported.

Along with creative fantasies, the competition focused on the topicality of the films and their numerous social challenges during the contest, which consisted of three stages.

Takinto account the review of social network users, the first place went to Sahil Huseynov's "Dream", the second to Elnur Velizade's "Color of Death", the third to Sanan and Kanan Sharifov's "Gambling Victim".

Anar Rafigoghlu, artistic director of the "Era Theater", which is a part of the Azerbaijani community organizations operating in Georgia, stressed that the contest organizers implemented the project in order to close the gap created during the strict quarantine in Georgia due to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic and to draw the attention of Azerbaijani people to creative work.

The contest was also aimed at increasing the interest of young people to the art, theater and cinema.

Expressing special gratitude to the Integration Center of Georgian Azerbaijanis, the artistic director emphasised that they see the effective results of their joint project and if supported, they intend to organize various contests in the future.

Rashad Mehdiyev is one of artists whose stunning art works are admired throughout the world.

His breathtaking paintings brilliantly reflect the traditions of national and European art. Mehdiyev`s art works are distinguished by their individual and creative style, rich color of bright and vibrant colors taken from Azerbaijani miniatures.

He is the first Azerbaijani artist whose exhibition was held at the UN office in 2006. In 2012, he was presented Russian Public Fund Award.

Rashad Mehdiyev inherited his love for art from his father, a prominent artist Rafik Mehdiyev. He spent a lot of time watching his father`s works.

Mehdiyev graduated from the Baku Art College and Azerbaijan State University of Culture and Art. He also entered the Turkish University of Memar Sinan. In 2002, Rashad Mehdiyev won  "Canaqqalanin gozyashlari" contest organized by TURKSOY in Turkey.

The artist's works are stored in private collections. His paintings have been successfully showcased in many European countries.

Now Rashad Mehdiyev shares his art secrets with young artists.

A short film contest, co-organized by Era Theater and the Integration Center of Georgian Azerbaijanis has been completed.

From May 6 to 27, the festival received over 10 short films, the State Committee on Work with Diaspora of Azerbaijan reported.

Along with creative fantasies, the competition focused on the topicality of the films and their numerous social challenges during the contest, which consisted of three stages.

Takinto account the review of social network users, the first place went to Sahil Huseynov's "Dream", the second to Elnur Velizade's "Color of Death", the third to Sanan and Kanan Sharifov's "Gambling Victim".

Anar Rafigoghlu, artistic director of the "Era Theater", which is a part of the Azerbaijani community organizations operating in Georgia, stressed that the contest organizers implemented the project in order to close the gap created during the strict quarantine in Georgia due to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic and to draw the attention of Azerbaijani people to creative work.

The contest was also aimed at increasing the interest of young people to the art, theater and cinema.

Expressing special gratitude to the Integration Center of Georgian Azerbaijanis, the artistic director emphasised that they see the effective results of their joint project and if supported, they intend to organize various contests in the future.