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Laman Ismayilova

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The International Carpet Forum 2026 in Baku has brought together international experts and artisans to discuss the significance of traditional carpet weaving and textile heritage in a rapidly globalizing world.

The event provides a space for discussion on the ways cultural identity is maintained and conveyed through textile traditions, along with the difficulties artisans encounter in sustaining these practices over time.

In an interview with AzerNews, Prof. Dr. Maria del Carmen Avendano Rito, a participant of the International Carpet Forum 2026, shared her insights on textile traditions, cultural identity, and their contemporary relevance.

Representing Mexico's rich textile heritage, she spoke about the deep connection between textiles, family traditions, spirituality, and natural materials, while also highlighting the importance of international platforms like the Carpet Forum in promoting and safeguarding cultural heritage worldwide.

Q: Could you explain the main idea and purpose of your presentation?

A: We are excited to share our traditions with you. Our work is based on natural materials, and it reflects family values, cultural traditions, and spirituality. We are very happy to present this to you.

Carpet-making is an important part of our culture. Later, I will wear my traditional costume. Artisans often wear traditional clothing as part of their cultural expression.

Q: What challenges do artisans face in keeping textile traditions alive?

A: One of the main challenges artisans face in keeping textile traditions alive is the difference in how traditions are practiced. These traditions are deeply rooted in culture, and the techniques are very strong, but they are not always developing in the same way as in other places. In many cases, continuing these traditions is a personal choice. There are also differences in roles—for example, some tasks are traditionally done by women, while others are done by men. These practices are passed down from generation to generation.

Q: What role does a Carpet Forum play in promoting traditional carpet weaving and cultural heritage?

A: Platforms like the Carpet Forum play an important role in educating global audiences about the cultural identity behind traditional carpets. Today, it is more important than ever to preserve our cultural heritage and protect natural techniques. By doing so, we help care for the planet and show the world that it is possible to create beautiful, high-quality works without relying on artificial materials. In this way, we keep both our traditions and our art alive.

Note that the International Carpet Forum 2026 is part of the International Carpet Festival taking place from May 1 to 3. The festival is organized by Azerkhalcha OJSC and the Icherisheher State Historical-Architectural Reserve Office, with support from the Ministry of Economy and the Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Agency (AZPROMO).

Held under the theme "Carpet Industry: Value Creation, Branding and Global Markets – From Cultural Heritage to a Competitive Global Product," the forum gathered prominent international specialists, designers, producers, researchers, exporters, and creative industry representatives.

The forum marks the beginning of a broader cultural celebration. On May 2–3, Baku's historic Icherisheher district will be turned into a vibrant center of carpet art, with the aim of promoting Azerbaijani carpet weaving internationally while highlighting both its heritage and future potential.

Historic caravanserais, squares, and traditional buildings will host exhibitions, masterclasses, and musical performances. International guests will showcase their national carpet traditions in special pavilions at Gosha Gala Square, while both local and foreign artists will display their works in galleries throughout Icherisheher.

The festival program will also feature exhibitions of rare regional carpets, live weaving demonstrations, stage performances, and interactive educational activities for children.

For more information about the events, please visit: https://bakucarpetfest.az/2026/

Media partners of the event are Azernews.Az, Trend.Az, Day.Az, and Milli.Az.