Zaur Ahmadov, a talented artisan supported by ABAD, resides in the historic city of Sheki. A graduate of the Azerbaijan State Academy of Fine Arts, Mr. Ahmadov has previously worked in various cultural and artistic institutions. Alongside his professional engagements, he has continually pursued his personal artistic vision — developing a craft-based business centered on handmade artworks.

As he took his first steps in this creative field, Mr. Ahmadov began to express the rich natural beauty of his homeland, as well as Azerbaijan’s historical monuments and contemporary architectural landmarks, through vivid paintings on stone surfaces. His work combines technical precision with artistic sensitivity, capturing the essence of Azerbaijani identity in a unique and tangible form.

Among his most admired creations are hand-painted souvenir magnets, which have garnered significant interest from tourists. These items stand out for their refined ornamentation, cultural depth, and consistently high quality.

Mr. Ahmadov’s greatest ambition is to promote the beauty of Azerbaijan to the world through his handcrafted artworks.

In the past, his customer base was limited to tourists visiting Sheki during the summer months. This seasonal dependence made it difficult to scale his business or ensure a stable income.

To expand his market reach and enhance the sustainability of his craft, Mr. Ahmadov applied for support through the ABAD initiative. With the assistance provided, his artworks are now available not only to seasonal tourists, but also to customers year-round through ABAD’s Handicraft and Sales Centers.

Thanks to this collaboration, Mr. Ahmadov is able to introduce his vision of Azerbaijan’s natural and cultural heritage to a wider audience — both locally and globally.