By Maria Bregman, a London-based art critic, writer, and curator. Maria is Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Creativitys.UK (77K+ monthly readers) and operates a media network of platforms reaching nearly 2M readers annually. She has curated solo exhibitions for Zurab Tsereteli, president of a leading national academy of arts, and her criticism has been published in outlets such as ArtCulture.UK, Creativity’s UK, and international editions of ELLE, Cosmopolitan, Glamour and Esquire. A member of several professional writers’ and journalists’ unions, her own literary work has been recognised with multiple international awards.
When political rhetoric runs dry and national borders feel insurmountable, art steps forward as the most peaceful – and arguably the most powerful – language of diplomacy. Recently, the United Nations Headquarters in New York hosted an event that reaffirmed this very truth: the exhibition Art for Cultural Diplomacy: Azerbaijan – Where East Meets West. Timed to coincide with the ancient and radiant holiday of Novruz, the gathering became a genuine celebration of humanitarian ties between Azerbaijan and the United States.
As an art critic, I often see projects claiming to be “cultural bridges,” but this UN exposition stands out for its sincerity and profound symbolism. Through the 34 works presented by 18 young artists, the multicultural heartbeat of Azerbaijan is palpable. Looking at these canvases, you can almost “hear” the country’s contrasts: the austere rhythms of the north and the lyricism of the south, the strumming of the saz in the west, and the refined poetry of ghazals in the east. All of this is woven together by the sounds of the tar, the kamancha, and the deep philosophy of mugham, creating a distinctly unique visual and musical identity.
Behind any project of this scale lies the monumental effort and unwavering faith of its creators. Here, that driving force is Islam Bakhshaliyev, head of the “Dirchelish” (Revival) Youth Social and Psychological Rehabilitation Center. Founded in 1999, the center has spent a quarter of a century proving that creativity can heal memories and inspire the world.
Asma Gushad. “The Carpet museum”, 50x60cm, canvas, acrylic, 2025
The center’s track record speaks volumes:
Since 2010, the Art of Cultural Diplomacy – Art for Peace initiative has mounted 28 exhibitions across five continents.
These showcases have featured 487 young talents presenting a total of 2,081 artworks to the global public.
This represents a massive contribution to the promotion of Azerbaijani culture, backed by institutions like the U.S. Department of State, the Council of Europe, and the UN. The organizers also extended special gratitude to the U.S. Embassy in Azerbaijan for their instrumental support in securing visas for the 17-member delegation.
Between Academicism and National Texture
Stripping away the diplomatic context to view the canvases purely through a professional lens reveals a fascinating cross-section of emerging art. Naturally, the artists’ experience levels vary: mature, resolved paintings sit alongside more searching, emotionally raw pieces. Yet, they are all united by a striking coloristic audacity.
Monumental portraits of noble steeds immediately catch the eye, blending classical realism with almost ornamental backgrounds. The still lifes featuring pomegranates and Novruz attributes deserve a special mention – rendered in thick, expressive impasto, they literally pulse with the energy of abundance. The landscapes function not as mere tourist sketches, but as symbolic statements, whether it’s the Maiden Tower bathed in mystical moonlight or a blazing festive bonfire against the fortress walls of Shusha. These works make no attempt to chase fleeting Western art trends; this is honest, highly textured art that wins you over with its sheer authenticity.
“Art unites cultures, strengthens dialogue, and reminds the world of our shared humanity,” was noted in the address to the ambassadors and guests. It is impossible to disagree. This UN exposition is far more than a showcase of talent; it is a message of peace. And as long as initiatives like this exist, bridges of understanding will continue to be built where walls once stood.
