REZA’s ‘The Rising Light’ Transforms Baku Airport Into a Cultural Gateway
A striking photography exhibition by renowned photojournalist Reza Deghati—known as REZA—has opened at Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku. Titled 'The Rising Light', the display transforms the airport’s Terminal 1 into a cultural gateway, offering travellers a visual journey through Azerbaijan’s heritage and modern life.
The exhibition features 44 images, including a special section on Azerbaijan’s UNESCO-listed World Heritage sites. Visitors can explore the country’s landscapes, traditions, and daily life until 27 March. REZA, who has documented human stories in over 100 countries, selected an airport as the venue to blend art with global travel—a long-held ambition.
REZA’s work in Azerbaijan spans decades, capturing pivotal moments in the nation’s history. His contributions to peacebuilding and cultural dialogue have earned him the Order of Dostlug, awarded by both Azerbaijan and Tajikistan. President Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan previously honoured him for similar efforts in fostering cross-cultural understanding. Backed by Azerbaijan Airlines, Heydar Aliyev Airport, and Boeing, the project aligns with a broader vision of airports as hubs for cultural exchange. The organisers aim to spark curiosity among passengers, turning transit time into an opportunity to engage with Azerbaijan’s identity.
The exhibition runs until late March, offering a rare chance to experience Azerbaijan’s culture without leaving the terminal. By placing art in a transit space, the project highlights how photography can bridge divides and connect people through shared stories. REZA’s images now welcome travellers to discover a nation through its most defining moments.
