Milan, April 22, 2024 – From April 15 to 21, Azerbaijani artist and patron of the arts Aida Mahmudova presented her latest visionary projects at the 5VIE Design Week in Milan. Among the highlights was the debut of CHELEBI, the brand that redefines Azerbaijani craftsmanship through a contemporary lens. Visitors experienced an inspiring dialogue between modern design and traditional artisan techniques, marking a significant moment for the visibility of Azerbaijani cultural heritage on the global design stage.
Aida Mahmudova, a prominent figure in Azerbaijani arts and design, is celebrated for her socially engaging projects that emphasize locality. As the founder of YARAT Contemporary Art Space in Baku and the visionary behind the brand Chelebi, Mahmudova's artistic practice spans mediums from painting to ceramics, intertwining memory, place, and belonging. Mahmudova's Milan showcase is a testament to her commitment to exploring the cultural legacy of Azerbaijan through sensitive artistic exploration. Collaborating with local artisans, she breathes new life into traditional Azerbaijani crafts, infusing them with contemporary sensibilities.
ABOUT CHELEBI:
CHELEBI, founded by Aida Mahmudova, emerges as a beacon of Azerbaijani artistry, offering a curated selection of decorative items that redefine contemporary design. From intricately crafted textiles to hand-painted ceramics, each piece reflects Azerbaijan's rich cultural heritage, seamlessly blending ancient techniques with modern aesthetics.
The latest furniture collection from CHELEBI, meticulously crafted from solid oak, showcases a fusion of modern aesthetics and timeless traditions, resonating with the spirit of Azerbaijani architecture. Collaborating with the Azerbaijan National Museum of Art, CHELEBI infuses modern interpretations with traditional forms, ornaments, colors, and materials, creating a sensory journey of discovery.
ABOUT THE PROJECTS:
Mahmudova’s collaboration with Azeri female carpet weavers from Shamkir yields "From the Landscape Series, 2024," a stunning artwork that reinterprets traditional crafts through layered painting techniques. Documented in a short film, this collaboration not only honors the symbiotic relationship between the artist and the weavers but also underscores the enduring legacy of Azerbaijani carpet weaving.
Simultaneously, Mahmudova unveils "Beyond Utility, 2024," a ceramic series that delves into the profundity of materiality and narrative. Collaborating with local artisans, Mahmudova elevates ceramic vessels into objects of personal and cultural significance, bridging tradition with contemporaneity.
