A mixture of cultural heritage and enduring optimism is what the French-Iranian photographer Reza hopes visitors take away from 'The Rising Light', an illuminating exhibition of his work that's currently on in Baku.
There's an undeniable romance to being in an international airport. For many travellers they can be great places to see people mingle as they rush to reach dream destinations, rekindle relationships, make new discoveries or simply just make it home safely.
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Those are just some of the experiences and feelings conveyed in a thought-provoking exhibition by the renowned French-Iranian photographer, Reza Deghati.
His latest show, 'The Rising Light', currently on at Baku airport, aims to offer a visual journey through hope, resilience, and the transformative power of light, reflecting both personal and cultural narratives.
Deghati, who traces his roots to Azerbaijan, told Euronews the collection on display is a meditation on illumination and revival. “Azerbaijan rises toward light. Peace itself becomes light, revealing traditions, resilience, and generosity.”
The works span four decades, capturing moments from his first visit to Baku in 1988 to the present day, forming a constellation of images that celebrate life, endurance, and the human spirit.
Hosting the exhibition in Baku airport was deliberate, Reza says as it's a bridge between the East and West: “Passengers become witnesses to a nation’s story, from its ancient heritage to modern vitality. The airport transforms into a gallery, connecting travelers to the rising light of Azerbaijan.”
“People everywhere seek illumination and the freedom to create, love, and endure. This exhibition celebrates that eternal ascent of the human spirit,” adds Reza.
At the very least, he hopes visitors will pause and reflect: “If one person leaves wanting to understand more deeply, then the rising light has done its work.”
The Rising Light runs at Baku airport until 27 March 2026.
