In Baku, on the eve of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), an exhibition entitled “Guram Art: unity of time“.
The Office of the State Historical and Architectural Reserve “Icherisheher” reported this to Day.Az on Thursday.
The exhibition emphasizes respect for nature and sustainable use of resources, focusing on the environmental responsibility and sustainability aspects of Guram art.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the exhibition, the chief of staff of the Office of the State Historical and Architectural Reserve “Icherisheher” Intigam Babayev spoke about the attention that the state pays to ecology and environmental protection.
He noted that the purpose of the opening exhibition is not only to preserve the art of guram as a national heritage, but also to contribute to the expansion of environmental awareness and concern for environmental protection. Guram art promotes zero waste and sustainability by reusing leftover woven materials, giving them a “second life”, thereby making a positive impact in terms of both environmental responsibility and creativity. He added that this approach plays an important role not only in the field of art, but also in shaping the environmental behavior of society.
Then, guests of the exhibition, which is adapted to the modern era while preserving the ancient methods of guram art, were introduced to samples of guram from the 19th-21st centuries, reflecting the unity of tradition with modern technology, as well as samples of digital guram, considered a novelty in this art form.
The exhibition “Gurama Art: Unity of Time” will last until November 12 in the complex of the Shirvanshahs’ Palace, and from November 15 to 30 – in the State Historical and Ethnographic Reserve “Gala”.
It should be noted that the Guram Center, located in the State Historical and Ethnographic Reserve “Gala” under the State Historical and Architectural Reserve “Icherisheher”, supports the revival and preservation of the heritage of guram art, which has deep roots in the traditions of Azerbaijan. Starting in 2022, national Guram Festivals were held, organized by the Icherisheher Nature Reserve, and in 2024, the International Guram Festival, organized for the first time in Azerbaijan in partnership with the Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Intigam Babayev, Chief of Staff of the Office of the State Historical and Architectural Reserve “Icherisheher”
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good day, Intigam. Thank you for joining us today. We’re excited to hear about the recent exhibition, “Guram Art: Unity of Time,” which coincides with COP29. Can you tell us what inspired this exhibition?
Intigam Babayev (IB): Thank you for having me. The inspiration for the exhibition stems from the need to highlight the harmony between culture and nature. As we gather for COP29, it is crucial to remind ourselves of our environmental responsibilities. Guram art, a unique expression of our heritage, embodies the sustainable practices that respect and preserve the natural world.
TNE: That’s fascinating! How does the art of Guram specifically relate to sustainability?
IB: Guram art, which can be seen in our traditional crafts and architecture, utilizes local materials in a sustainable manner. This not only minimizes environmental impact but also promotes a deep respect for our surroundings. The exhibition underscores how our artistic traditions can serve as a model for sustainable practices, merging cultural preservation with ecological consciousness.
TNE: It sounds like this exhibition aims to bridge cultural heritage with contemporary environmental issues. Could you elaborate on the state’s efforts toward environmental protection that you mentioned during the opening ceremony?
IB: Absolutely. The Azerbaijani government is actively investing in various initiatives to protect our natural environment. We’ve recognized that cultural heritage and ecology are intertwined; thus, we are promoting environmentally friendly practices within our cultural sectors. This exhibition is one way we showcase our commitment to sustainable development as we prepare for COP29, where global leaders will gather to address climate change.
TNE: Speaking of COP29, how do you see events like this influencing the dialogue around climate change on a broader scale?
IB: Events like “Guram Art: Unity of Time” serve as vital platforms for raising awareness about the importance of sustainability. They remind us that art and culture are powerful tools in the fight against climate change. By incorporating local perspectives and traditional practices into the conversation, we can inspire meaningful change and encourage collective action among nations.
TNE: That’s a crucial point. In what ways do you hope visitors will engage with the exhibition, both intellectually and emotionally?
IB: We hope that visitors walk away with a deeper appreciation for our natural world and the role we all play in preserving it. The exhibition is designed to provoke thought and reflection—encouraging not just admiration for Guram art but also a commitment to sustainable practices in their daily lives. It’s about fostering a sense of responsibility and unity towards the environment, which is essential in today’s world.
TNE: A powerful message indeed. Lastly, what are your hopes for the future of Guram art and its role in promoting sustainability?
IB: My hope is that Guram art continues to thrive and adapt in ways that resonate with modern sustainability efforts. By promoting our local arts and integrating them into broader environmental initiatives, we can ensure that our cultural heritage not only survives but flourishes. Ultimately, my vision is for Guram art to be a beacon of sustainability—showing that tradition and innovation can coexist harmoniously.
TNE: Thank you, Intigam, for sharing these insightful perspectives. We look forward to seeing how the discussion around sustainability unfolds at COP29 and beyond.
IB: Thank you for having me. Let’s continue to advocate for a sustainable future through culture and beyond!