Azerbaijan is showcasing its rich cultural identity and contemporary artistic vision at the Venice Biennale, one of the world's most prestigious art platforms. On May 7, the Azerbaijan pavilion officially opened at the International Art Exhibition – Venice Biennale, organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and the Ministry of Culture, with support from the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Italy.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that the Azerbaijan pavilion is located at Campo della Tanada, a 16th-century architectural monument in Venice. This year, the country is represented by Honored Artist Faig Ahmed’s project titled "The Attention." A central and recurring element in the artist's practice, the carpet, serves as the focal point of the pavilion, representing Azerbaijan's philosophical traditions and cultural memory for a global audience.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Anar Alakbarov, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Executive Director of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, stated that Azerbaijan’s successful representation at the Venice Biennale for 19 years is a major achievement of the country's international cultural policy. He emphasized that this success is rooted in the consistent activities of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation to promote Azerbaijani culture worldwide. "Participation in such a prestigious platform as the Venice Biennale is a unique opportunity to convey our country's rich cultural heritage and contemporary art potential to an international audience," Alakbarov noted.
Pietrangelo Buttafuoco, President of the Venice Biennale, described the Azerbaijan pavilion as more than just an art event, calling it a profound spiritual and aesthetic experience. He noted that the colors and symbols reflected in Azerbaijani carpets use a universal language of art to guide individuals toward their inner worlds. Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Italy Rashad Aslanov further highlighted that the national pavilion serves as a vital platform for presenting the spirit, history, and cultural identity of Azerbaijan to the world, fostering international cultural cooperation and inter-civilizational dialogue.
The "The Attention" project, authored by Faig Ahmed, explores the synthesis of traditional art and advanced technology. The exposition integrates quantum-based systems, neuroreactive, and data-driven technologies to create a new aesthetic experience. Inspired by the philosophical heritage of the great Azerbaijani poet and thinker Imadaddin Nasimi and Hurufi thought, the project draws parallels between ancient philosophy and modern quantum physics. The 61st Venice Biennale, which opens to the public on May 9, will continue until November 22. Azerbaijan has been a regular participant in the International Art Exhibition since 2007, consistently ranking among the top pavilions for its innovative presentations.
