Washington:A presentation titled 'Azerbaijani Culture Day Patterns, Colors and Stories' was held in Washington, D.C., showcasing Azerbaijan's carpet-weaving art, gurama patchwork traditions, and national handicrafts. The event was organized by the Embassy of Azerbaijan in the United States and the U.S.-Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the event attracted representatives from cultural and arts organizations, including the George Washington University Museum and The Textile Museum, Cultural Exchange for Diplomats, and Welcome to Washington International Club.

Natig Bakhishov, Executive Director of the U.S.-Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of culture in fostering mutual understanding and strengthening economic ties. He highlighted the human dimension culture brings to business cooperation.

Azerbaijan's Ambassador to the United States, Khazar Ibrahim, underscored the role of art in cultural preservation and emotional well-being. He emphasized that Azerbaijani carpets and traditional crafts are integral to the nation's identity, helping to preserve family bonds, collective memory, and spiritual values.

Amina Malikova, Director of the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum, presented the English edition of 'Happiness in Carpets 10 Reasons Why Carpets Make People Happy.' She highlighted the cultural and spiritual significance of Azerbaijani carpets and their role in preserving national heritage. The museum reportedly holds about 12,000 carpets and related items.

Malikova also unveiled the exhibition 'Gurama Stories Woven from Ties,' featuring artworks made from approximately 5,000 used ties collected globally. The artworks include Karabakh carpet motifs, a portrait of Azerbaijani poet Imadaddin Nasimi, and themes related to Azerbaijan's oil industry and cultural heritage.

Lala Sardarli, representing the Public Association for the Preservation and Promotion of Applied Arts, presented the 'Art Therapy Safeguarding Culture and Health' project. She discussed how a family handicraft initiative grew into a study and promotion of traditional Azerbaijani chest and casket-making. The Sandigchilig cultural space in Novkhani, Baku, which was established during the pandemic, now serves as a venue for research, exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events.

The event also featured handcrafted works representing Azerbaijan's cultural heritage and creativity, with guests learning about the history and cultural significance of traditional Azerbaijani silk kelaghayi headscarves.