Azerbaijan's architectural and landscape photographs showcased in Russia

An exhibition featuring the works of Azerbaijani photographer Rustam Huseynov has opened its door at Oryol United State Literary Museum in Russia, Azernews reports.

Titled "An Extraordinary Journey with Turgenev to the East," the exhibition coincides with a local holiday celebrating the birthday of Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev, a renowned literary figure from Oryol.

This exhibition marks a significant cultural event that, after a long hiatus, has rekindled the interest of the residents of the "third literary capital" in Eastern culture. Rustam Huseynov showcased a collection of his photographs that highlight the Azerbaijani architecture and natural beauty.

Speaking to AZERNEWS, the photographer mentioned that when selecting works for the exhibition, he tried to choose the most interesting snapshots that resembled illustrations for a traveller's diary. He reflected on how he would be impressed if he were visiting Azerbaijan for the first time and aimed to convey a holistic image of the natural and cultural beauty of their country.

"When selecting works for the exhibition, I tried to choose the most interesting snapshots that resembled illustrations for a traveller's diary. I thought about how I would be impressed if I were visiting Azerbaijan for the first time and aimed to convey a holistic image of the natural and cultural beauty of our country," he said.

Visitors to the exhibition are treated to stunning images of Azerbaijan's majestic mountains, the intricate patterns of its roads, the vibrant red of blooming poppies in the valleys, the surf of the Caspian Sea, and the exquisite ancient architecture of the country, all captured in the artist's succinct and expressive style. Through Huseynov's works, Orel's residents gained a glimpse into the East.

The selection of this photo exhibition at the Literary Museum of I.S. Turgenev is fitting, as Turgenev himself was enchanted by the East—often referred to as the "land of wonders"—since childhood, a passion reflected in his writings. His fascination extends to the captivating "eastern pages" found in Turgenev's "mysterious stories" and his interest in the works of esteemed Eastern poets.

Following in Turgenev's footsteps, other classics of Russian literature, such as A. Fet, N. Leskov, I. Bunin, and L. Andreyev, also embarked on literary journeys to the East.

The exhibition featuring Rustam Huseynov's photographs will be open until January 20, 2025.