​

Graduating from the Repin

Academy of Saint Petersburg,

honed his skills by copying the

works of old masters at the

Hermitage Museum

during his studies, which allowed

him to perceive national

carpets as if they were living still

life's.

He creates realistic "portraits" of carpets with such mastery

that viewers initially experience a moment of confusion mixed

with astonishment. The realistic depiction evokes in the viewer a

desire to touch the carpet and decipher its meaning.

Although Valiyev does not like to be associated with

hyperrealism, he enjoys creating the illusion of reality—

an optical deception—using his impeccable painting technique.

Within the context of modern art, he revitalizes the realism of the

17th and 18th centuries: after the initial impression, the viewer,

detached from their first perception, dives into the details, trying

to overcome the illusion and understand reality.

"As a modern Azerbaijani artist, I believe that in the 21st century, the only meaningful subject on canvas is the carpet. The carpet is the symbol of our world. The carpet is Azerbaijan itself. What I do is art within art; it is, in a sense, a postmodern gesture, which is why I don't place much importance on art historical terms. I believe that painting should surprise, and I am happy when people experience shock when they encounter my works. They ask, 'What is this? How can it be possible?'—and these are the right questions. In fact, anyone who encounters a work of art should ask themselves these questions."

Mystery is always at the forefront of Valiyev's works. Just as in Caravaggio's paintings, Valiyev's works lead viewers into deep thought. "I use a complex technique: acrylic, oil paint, and varnish. With the help of acrylic, oil paint, and layers, I create an illusion, making each thread and every pattern appear three-dimensional," says the artist.