Azerbaijani artist Eldar Hajiyev: I have created portrait carpets of Arab sheikhs, Alexy II, Vladimir Putin...

How did you decide to become an artist? What is your major?

Since childhood, I had a passion to draw on paper what exists in real life. I have graduated from the Mirzaaga Aliyev Institute of Arts in Baku in 1984 and majored in carpet weaving. Latif Karimov was my mentor and teacher. Since 1997, I am a member of the Union of Artists of Azerbaijan.

So, you draw sketches only for carpets?

Yes, only for carpets. I have a weaver who transfers my pictures and sketches to the carpet. Previously, we wove rugs from wool, but recently decided to create carpets of pure silk with a high density based on my sketches.

Which of your works is the closest to your heart?

Honestly, I put my heart to all the work I do. For example, I have a series of works dedicated to Nizami, to his collection of poems "Khamsa". In addition, I also work over religious themes. I have a series of works associated with the Orthodox subjects, the life of Jesus Christ, as well as stories on the Jewish theme.


Which celebrity portraits have you painted?

I have portrait carpets of the late President Heydar Aliyev and current President Ilham Aliyev. In addition, there are private orders. In particular, I have created portrait carpets of Arab sheikhs, Alexy II, Vladimir Putin. I have a work about inauguration of George Bush and so on.


A tricky one: Can you earn money through what you do?

Well, work with carpets is rather heavy and laborious. But my job is interesting, and I love it. In general, one can earn money…


/Vesti.az/