An exhibition entitled “Face to Face” was opened at the Museum of Modern Art

Within the framework of a joint project by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) and Statoil company, an exhibition of portraits was opened, on October 11, at the Museum of Modern devoted to the 20^th anniversary of Statoil’s operation in Azerbaijan, comprised of its art collection.

President of Statoil’s Representative Office in Azerbaijan Lars Troen Sörensen said he was proud of holding the 20^th jubilee of the company’s operation in Azerbaijan, and expressed his gratitude for the opening of an exhibition on this occasion at the Museum of Modern Art. It was informed that, being an energy company, Statoil believes energy being art too. “This is energy differs from our main business – oil and gaz. Energy of art inspires people. Being a means of international intercourse, the fine arts helps all people understand each other through visual images, regardless of their  nation, culture and origin”, he said.

President  of Statoil  thanked Executive Director  of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Anar Alakbarov, Rector of the Baku Branch of the M.V.Lomonosov Moscow State University, Professor Nargiz Pashayeva and others for  participation in the opening.

Vice-president of Statoil Lars Christian Baker said he was proud of participating in the exhibition’s opening. He said Azerbaijan was one of the leading countries of the world by production and development of oil. We have been operating in Azerbaijan by assigning ourselves long-term tasks.

Saying Statoil’s operation in Azerbaijan continues at a high level, Lars Christian Baker underlined that his trip to Baku was of special significance for him. He said such trips gives him a chance to learn the history and people of a country closer.

The guests thanked the organizers of the exhibition.

Expressing his gratitude with being in Azerbaijan, curator of the exhibition Bjarne Voqa informed of the company’s art program. He said the company’s association with art help them improve working conditions further, create Statoil brand and culture, and contribute to cultural development of societies where the company operates.

It was informed that for the last 25 years Statoil has collected over 1000 pieces modern art into its art collection.

63 works by 16 photographers, sculptors and artists from 10 countries were displayed at the exhibition arranged at the Museum of Modern Art.

The exhibition will continue till the 11^th  of November.