Aynur Abutalibova
Aynur Abutalibova is an independent curator and mixed-media artist from Baku, Azerbaijan. Her primary focus lies in exploring the intersection of heritage with contemporary life, particularly emphasising social and political aspects. As a curator, Aynur conceptualizes and showcases her artistic thoughts, while as an artist, she harnesses digital mediums or engages in performance art.

Videographer: Lemospace @nudephy

Collaboration with artist
Rasa Vil Jewelry _@rasaviljewelery
VIRGIN HISTORY. STRUGGLE, LOVE AND FREEDOM OF HOME
The work was created in Salaam Cinema Baku-Art Temple, located in the heart of the city of Baku, Azerbaijan.

This place has been through a lot of changes over time. This object carries within it the echoes of various historical epochs, each leaving an indelible mark on its identity. It started as a prayer house in Malacca, where people gathered to pray and connect. Then, during the Soviet Union days, it became a radio station, broadcasting news and messages. After that, it was left empty for a while until the Salaam community came along in 2019 and decided to preserve its history. Now, it stands as a symbol of the different chapters it has seen, from prayer to broadcasting and now, community care.
Aynur is driven by a desire to challenge conventional thinking and present alternative perspectives on her chosen topics. While she doesn't profess to have a mission to revolutionize the world, her aim is to plant seeds of new ideas in people's minds, disrupting the status quo through her art. She firmly believes that her artwork serves as a bridge between heritage and modernity, facilitating a deeper understanding of their interconnectedness.

Hailing from the vibrant city of Baku, Aynur sees her hometown not just as the "Land of Fire" but as a place where history and the quest for identity intertwine, creating a tapestry of chaos and beauty. Aynur is an independent curator and a valued member of the Salaam Cinema Collective team. Aynur describes Salaam Cinema Baku-Art Temple, situated within a historic edifice, as a space transcends mere physicality; it's a sanctuary where creativity flourishes, and individuals are empowered to express themselves freely. Here, every stroke of the brush narrates a unique tale, and the atmosphere is imbued with the magic of shared experiences and meaningful connections.
Enter a world where the whispers of the past are carried by tiny symbols, guiding us to a place born from the struggles of a community. Picture every corner filled with hope for the future, mingled with the safety and unity of those who call it home. This space isn't just a physical location; it's a sanctuary of love and freedom, fought for and cherished by all who inhabit it.

In each person's story, this place holds different meanings, yet collectively, it becomes a shared home. Embark on this journey of art and imagination, where you are invited to explore the depths of a space where freedom reigns supreme, and love knows no bounds. Let the symphony of small symbols guide you as you navigate through the labyrinth of memory, and may you find refuge in the warmth of a community's embrace.