Grls from Lankaran 

"Grls from Lankaran" is a painting by Boyukagha Mirzazade which captures a group of women in Lankaran, Azerbaijan, during the Soviet era. Mirzazade was born during a tumultuous period marked by the collapse of Tsarist Russia and the rise of the Soviet Union, which shaped his artistic vision. The women, likely collective farm workers, are depicted with a sense of pride and solidarity. Their traditional attire is combined with elements of Soviet-era clothing, reflecting the complex negotiation of identity during this time. The painting offers a glimpse into the lives of women in rural Azerbaijan, highlighting their roles in the workforce and their cultural heritage. Mirzazade once said that he aimed to portray the 'inner beauty' of his subjects, which comes across in the women's expressions. It's a reminder of the power of art to celebrate the humanity and resilience of those who often go unrepresented in official narratives.