Azernews.Az

By Amina Nazarli

The exhibition of one of the famous Azerbaijani artists, Farhad Khalilov will be held in London as part of the second Buta Festival of Azerbaijani Arts, a celebration of Azerbaijani art and culture across London, launched in November 2014.

The art lovers will have a chance to get acquainted with the abstract expressionistic works of the artist at the world-famous Saatchi Gallery from March 11 to 23.

As the head of the Azerbaijani Artists’ Union, Khalilov is one of the most prolific Azerbaijani artistic exports, particularly known for his unique, color field style of painting which is how the artist says he sees the world around him.

The artist’s work is unique within its milieu, the Caucasus region. It is honed in endless hours of studio work; the palette is often bleak and severe, yet the rich textures and delicate compositions convey a luminous and forceful beauty.

His paintings are stored at the International Confederation of Trade Unions of artists and private collections in the US, Mexico, Germany, Poland, France and other countries. The artist's works are exhibited in public museums of Russia, Azerbaijan, Ukraine, Lithuania, Germany and China.

Following his first solo exhibition in London in 2011, this is a rare opportunity for the European art community to view the canvases. The show is sponsored by philanthropist and art collector, Farkhad Akhmedov.

Nasib Piriev, artistic director of the Buta Festival commented on the exhibition. “We are delighted to welcome Khalilov to the Saatchi Gallery and know his exquisite works will attract and be appreciated by many visitors.”

Whereas his earlier seascapes could be described as contemplative and representational, Khalilov’s newer paintings are freely improvised expressions of abstract emotions and feelings.

The exhibition will focus on the artist’s most recent paintings. Moreover, works from the beginning stages of his career as well as a number of works on paper will also be presented.

Since the fall of the USSR, Azerbaijan has enjoyed a cultural and artistic renaissance, rediscovering its heritage and creative freedom. The perfect crossroad in between east and west, Azerbaijan had proven to be more vibrant than ever.

The Buta Festival aims to introduce Azerbaijan to the British cultural scene. It provides a window to the Azerbaijani Arts in London, offering unique insights into a country that is arousing a curiosity.

The first Buta Festival of Azerbaijan Arts was held in London from November 2009 to March 2010. During the festival, Londoners got acquainted with Azerbaijan's most celebrated musicians, artists, poets and filmmakers.

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Amina Nazarli is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @amina_nazarli

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