Azerbaijan has announced an open call for submissions to the "Plein Air Works" (Plener əsərlər) art exhibition, inviting professional artists aged 18 and above to submit up to three artworks each, with dimensions not exceeding 35 x 55 cm. International artists are also welcome. Applications must be sent by September 25, including a photograph of the artwork, its title, dimensions, technique, and the artist's contact details. After selection, 100 works will be displayed, and an online catalog will be produced. The ten best artists will receive invitations to a special plein air study tour, and all participants whose works are exhibited will receive certificates. The exhibition is free to enter.
This initiative matters because it provides a platform for professional artists—both local and international—to develop their observational skills and gain exposure through a curated exhibition and online catalog. The project is backed by major Azerbaijani cultural institutions, including the Azerbaijan Artists' Union and the Azerbaijan State Art Gallery, signaling state support for contemporary visual art. The inclusion of a study tour for top artists also fosters professional development and cross-cultural exchange, reinforcing Azerbaijan's growing engagement with the global art community.