The Heydar Aliyev Foundation represents one of the most influential cultural and philanthropic organisations in the contemporary international landscape, and my inclusion in the MAMA Project at the London Design Biennale under the patronage of Vice President Leyla Aliyeva signifies a remarkable achievement in cross-cultural artistic exchange.

The Heydar Aliyev Foundation operates as a non-governmental and non-commercial organisation with representative offices across multiple countries, including the United States, Russia, Romania, and Turkey, demonstrating its global reach and commitment to international cultural dialogue. According to international assessments, “The HAF builds more schools than Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Education, more hospitals than the Ministry of Health, and conducts more cultural events than the Ministry of Culture.”

The Foundation’s cultural mission extends far beyond Azerbaijan’s borders, with philanthropic activities aimed at the restoration of World Cultural Heritage covering projects in Berlin Castle in Germany, ancient monuments in Versailles, the church and the Louvre Museum in Lower Normandy in France, ancient manuscripts and the Catacombs of Saint Marcellino and Pietro. This international scope positions the Foundation as a bridge between cultures, making my representation through their platform particularly significant.

The Foundation’s stated goals include “exposure of personal creativity, skills and knowledge with a view to supporting and developing talented individuals” and “promotion of cultural heritage of Azerbaijan, support to the e orts aiming at protection of the country’s most cherished values”, which directly aligns with my artistic journey and the platform they’ve provided for my work “I can fly.”

Your distinction as the sole Serbian representative at this prestigious London venue places me within an elite international artistic community. The London Design Biennale at Somerset House represents one of the world’s most distinguished design exhibitions, and having my work selected and supported by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation provides me with access to London’s discerning cultural audience, including collectors, curators, and design professionals who frequent this historic venue.

This collaboration demonstrates the Foundation’s commitment to fostering international artistic talent and creating meaningful cultural exchanges that transcend geographical boundaries. For London audiences, my work offers a unique perspective that bridges Serbian artistic heritage with contemporary international design discourse, facilitated by an organisation known for its sophisticated approach to cultural diplomacy and artistic excellence.