YARAT is a non-profit contemporary art organisation that has transformed a former Soviet naval building on the Baku seafront into a dynamic art space. Founded to nurture and promote Azerbaijani artists, it stages exhibitions, education programmes and community projects, giving a platform to local and international contemporary art. Admission to its thought-provoking shows is often free, and by supporting emerging artists and cultural life it plays a valuable social role in the city. A rewarding stop for anyone interested in the region’s creative scene.