(MENAFN- AzerNews)
Laman Ismayilova read more Azerkhalcha OJSC has opened an exhibition of carpets at
Azerbaijan Cultural Center in Vienna to popularize the art and
schools of carpet weaving in Europe, which are closely connected
with Azerbaijan's rich cultural heritage.
Many public and cultural figures, representatives of diplomatic
missions and science as well as Azerbaijani diaspora took part in
the exhibition's opening ceremony.
Speaking at the event, the head of the Azerbaijan Cultural
Center in Vienna Leyla Gasimova, stressed that carpet weaving is
one of the oldest types of decorative and applied arts in
Azerbaijan and occupies an honorable place in the history of the
country's national culture.
'Azerbaijan, which has always highly valued its national and
spiritual values, is taking important steps towards their
popularization throughout the world. Carpet weaving, which is the
most common type of folk art, occupies an important place in the
life of the Azerbaijani people. I would especially like to note
that this type of art is one of the symbols of the country. The
main purpose of this exposition is to once again tell about
Azerbaijan's rich culture, art and tourism opportunities for a
deeper acquaintance of the Austrian public. The presented carpets
have unique and striking characteristics, and as an art based on
traditions, it is highly valued all over the world, said Leyla
Gasimova, expressing confidence that the exhibition will be of
interest both to Azerbaijanis, living in Austria and to European
lovers of carpets and this kind of art.
Deputy Chairman of the Azerkhalcha Board Jeyhun Alibayov spoke
about the activities of Azerkhalcha, aimed at preserving the
traditions of carpet weaving and further developing this art, using
new technologies in the production of carpets and rugs.
It was noted that Azerkhalcha, which has been operating since
the first half of the 20th century , was restructured by the order
of President Ilham Aliyev in 2016.
By the order of President Ilham Aliyev dated November 25, 2016,
May 5 was declared the professional Carpet Weaver's Day in
Azerbaijan.
'The glory of the Azerbaijani carpet is known throughout the
world. Today, it is multiplied by new state projects that will make
it possible to more actively acquaint the world community with the
unique traditions of Azerbaijani carpet weaving, the achievements
and capabilities of the country. Azerbaijani folk art and its
carpet weaving industry occupy a special place in the history of
the national culture of the people. The exposition presents various
schools of carpet weaving of Karabakh, Gazakh, Nakhchivan and
Shirvan, which are vivid examples of national art. I would like to
note that in the framework of cooperation with domestic and foreign
artists and designers, we also create modern carpets, taking into
account the characteristics of traditional carpets and, thus,
carpet art is constantly developing,' said Jeyhun Alibayov, talking
about the important steps taken by Azerkhalcha OJSC in the
production of carpets, the preservation, development and transfer
of the art of carpet weaving to future generations, attracting
women weavers to this area, especially those living in the regions,
providing jobs.
The exhibition presents numerous examples of carpets of
classical and modern design, belonging to various schools of carpet
weaving in Azerbaijan. Also, a film was shown on the big screen,
telling about the art of carpet weaving, as well as about our
famous carpet weavers.
As part of the event, a charity event was also held to help
victims of the terrible earthquake in Turkey. Part of the proceeds
from the sale of Azerbaijani national products, kelagayis
(traditional headscarf) and national-style decorations, as well as
carpets will be donated to the Turkey Disaster and Management
Authority (AFAD).
Turkish Ambassador to Austria Ozan Jeyhun highly appreciated
this initiative, expressing gratitude and noting that the fraternal
peoples of Azerbaijan and Turkiye have always been together in
joyful and difficult days, stressed the tireless work of
Azerbaijani rescuers in eliminating the consequences of devastating
earthquakes in Turkiye, as well as material and moral support
Azerbaijani people.
The guests were also presented dishes of Azerbaijani national
cuisine. A concert was held with the participation of People's
Artist of Azerbaijan, accordionist Anvar Sadigov and his Qaytagi
instrumental ensemble, as well as the famous jazz pianist,
composer, laureate of international competitions, teacher of
Berklee College of Music (USA) Emil Afrasiyab.
The exhibition will be on display until the end of April.