Join us for a rare discussion on the state of arts and culture in Azerbaijan, the role of independent cultural centers (such as Salaam Cinema) and the challenges and achievements of the country in this area. Lecture by Leyli Gafarova.
Our resident Cavid Ağa invited speaker, Leyli Gafarova, an independent filmmaker and co-creator of Salaam Cinema Baku, a community-based cinema and art space. Leyli will not only talk about the situation of contemporary art and culture of Azerbaijan, she will also address the role of decolonization in the ongoing transformation.
host: Cavid Ağa
Leyli Gafarova
Born in Baku, Azerbaijan, Leyli was raised in the Netherlands. She studied film at the Royal Institute for Theatre Cinema and Sound in Brussels and is currently based in Baku. Leyliis an independent filmmaker and co-creator of Salaam Cinema Baku, a community based cinema and art space. Her practice centers around processes, research and discoveries. Leyli is interested in subjects such as gender, national identity, urbanism and (self)-censorship.
Salaam Cinema
A community-based cinema and cultural center for audio-visual and performing arts in Baku, Azerbaijan. It was founded in 2017 by a group of young filmmakers and activists who wanted to create a space for inclusivity, diversity and dialogue through film screenings, exhibitions and workshops. Salaam Cinema also aims to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of Baku’s historic quarter, which is threatened by urban development and gentrification. Salaam Cinema’s current building is a former Molokan prayer hall in Baku that was saved from demolition by a public campaign that mobilized local and international support.