CICA Museum, M Gallery
August 23 – 27 2023
2023.08.23 – 27
Resplendent Gazes: Illuminating Azerbaijani Culture
Welcome to the exhibition, “Resplendent Gazes: Illuminating Azerbaijani Culture,” where we invite you on a journey into the vibrant world of an Azerbaijani painter Ayan Aziz Mammadova deeply rooted in her cultural heritage. Through a multitude of radiant artworks, Ayan paints a vivid tapestry that celebrates the Islamic traditions and the alluring beauty of her homeland.
Steeped in a kaleidoscope of bright and vibrant colours, each brushstroke bursts forth with a luminous energy, reflecting the artist’s deep connection to the Azerbaijani culture. It is a visual symphony that resonates with the rhythms of life, captivating the viewer’s gaze and transporting them to a realm where every hue tells a story.
Central to these captivating creations is the ancient symbol of the evil eye, a powerful talisman that holds immense significance in Azerbaijani culture. Its mesmerising presence weaves throughout the artist’s works, bestowing a sense of protection and warding off negative energy. Gaze upon these captivating depictions, and feel the mystical power of the evil eye working its magic, offering a shield of safeguarding and guiding one through life’s enchanting labyrinth.
But beyond the talismanic allure, the artist’s paintings emanate a radiant feminine energy. With delicate brushwork and a deep understanding of form, she brings forth the strength and grace of women in Azerbaijani society. Each stroke carries an essence of resilience, tenderness, and unwavering spirit, evoking a profound connection to the powerful feminine energies that shape cultures and communities.
As you immerse yourself in this exhibition, prepare to be mesmerised by the resplendent array of colours that dance before your eyes. Ayan’s masterful use of vibrant tones reflects the vivacity and richness of Azerbaijani culture. It is an homage to the sun-kissed landscapes, the bustling marketplaces brimming with exotic spices, and the heartfelt traditions that have shaped generations.
“Resplendent Gazes: Illuminating Azerbaijani Culture” is an invitation to embrace the cultural tapestry of Azerbaijan through the lens of art. Allow yourself to be enveloped by the luminosity of the paintings, to witness the captivating tales they tell, and to experience the essence of a culture steeped in history, spirituality, and the radiant beauty of its people.
Ayan creates from her inner world, where she is not bound by any conventional forms of artistry. From this space she allows her imagination to overflow onto the canvas, mirroring the soul and showcasing a host of feelings and mood swings that are communicated with feminine nature and rhythmic undertone.
Her work carries an inspiring uniqueness, with sweeping patterns and cascading lines. The paintings are delightfully disorienting, swirling and alive, exploding onto the canvas with bright colors and visual surges of delicate ferocity.
The underlying concept of Ayan’s work is utilizing the language of art to express paradoxical ideas uniting visually. Using colors to create movement and deep meaning in abstract ornaments, as well as complex patterns hidden throughout still lifes and landscapes, Ayan creates entire worlds to get lost in. She primarily works with oil on canvas, while also experimenting with mixed media and various other techniques.
Ayan Aziz Mammadova was born in Baku, Azerbaijan. As a child she spent time in her father’s studio, watching him passionately work on his paintings and dreaming that one day she would find an artistic passion of her own. These early memories have inspired and shaped her into the creative individual she is today.
Being surrounded by vibrant and talented artists from a young age has had a great influence on Ayan’s creative development. As she’s grown her artistic style has changed and gained individuality as she’s acquired a host of emotions, moods, and expressions that capture feminine warmth, sensitivity, and complexity.
