The ABAD program continues to expand the variety of souvenirs that reflect Azerbaijan’s rich cultural heritage and history. Among these, traditional dolls have garnered significant interest from buyers. One of the artisans crafting these dolls is Tarana Aliyeva, a skilled artist who brings her expertise in carpet weaving and artistic design to her creations.

Tarana Aliyeva, a graduate of the Faculty of Carpet Weaving and Art at the National Art Academy, currently works as a junior researcher at the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum. She shares:

“My uncle was an artist and animator, and as a child, I would sit by his side, drawing. This sparked my early aspiration to become a children’s illustrator.”

Aliyeva explains that her interest in artistic sewing developed alongside her passion for drawing:

“As I learned sewing techniques, I wanted to combine my artistic skills with sewing in a single creative pursuit. Doll-making became a significant part of my life. Crafting dolls involves elements of sculpting, artistic sewing, and composition, all of which require immense dedication, taste, and patience.”

Reflecting on her collaboration with ABAD, Aliyeva expresses satisfaction with the recognition her dolls have received:

“For some reason, I always dreamed of having my handmade works sold in a duty-free zone. In many countries, you often see local crafts displayed for sale. I wanted Azerbaijan’s cultural heritage to be represented in the same way. That dream has come true thanks to ABAD, my works are now available in the duty-free zone of Heydar Aliyev International Airport.”

Tarana Aliyeva’s meticulously crafted dolls, which embody Azerbaijan’s cultural and artistic traditions, are available for purchase at ABAD sales centers and the duty-free zone of Heydar Aliyev International Airport.