Surf Sea Breeze is more than just a sports complex; it's a space where a new culture of life is born. Its founder, Mr Andrey Panchilov, combines sport, art, and the philosophy of gratitude in a single project. For Andrey, surfing is not only an Olympic sport but also a symbol of inner freedom, a love of life, and harmony with oneself. In an exclusive interview with Global Art Magazine, he discusses his idea, his inspiration from Azerbaijan, and why creativity is the heart of any large project.
— Mr Panchilov, hello! Welcome to Global Art Magazine! Please tell us about your project.
— Hello! Thank you for the invitation!
We came to Azerbaijan with the idea of building a multi-sport and recreation complex with artificial waves in the resort town of Sea Breeze. This project was made possible thanks to the support of Emin Agalarov, who provided us with the land and all the necessary utilities.
Our main goal is to bring modern technology here and professionally develop surfing. I'd like to point out that surfing was officially included in the Olympic Games program in 2020, and is rapidly gaining popularity worldwide, including in Azerbaijan, which could also send its surfers to the world stage in the future. The Caspian Sea is beautiful, and with the right training, the conditions for surfing are excellent. That's why we're creating an artificial wave—safe and accessible for all levels. It will allow both beginners and experienced athletes to safely practice all the elements necessary to reach international competitions.
But surfing isn't the only focus. The complex will also feature world-class skate parks for park and street disciplines. These sports have also become Olympic sports, and according to the 2024 Olympics, skateboarding is among the top three in terms of spectator reach.
Our Surf Sea Breeze space is designed not only for training but also for relaxation and recovery for the whole family. While children are exercising, parents can spend time by the pool, sample national cuisine at the grill bar, or choose from a healthy food café. The administrative building will feature a multi-brand store selling clothing and sports equipment. The complex will also feature massage rooms, physical therapy, and rehabilitation programs supervised by professional medical professionals, allowing doctors to assess physical capabilities and determine the optimal workout. This ensures everything is done safely and under medical supervision, which is especially important for athletic development and health.
Furthermore, the complex will feature tennis and volleyball courts, a beach tennis court, a basketball court, and a modern athlete recovery center, the Reset Athlete Center. We've also provided accommodations so teams can come, train, eat, and improve their skills.
— At your sports complex, sport becomes not just a physical activity but a way of life. What is its underlying philosophy?
— It's a unified system of values. It's formed the moment a person realizes the joy of waking up early in the morning and surfing with the first rays of the sun. At such moments, gliding along the waves, you thank God, the Creator, for being alive and having the opportunity to experience this world. The philosophy of surfing is simultaneously simple and profound: peace, love, light, gratitude. It's love for life, for oneself, for the people around you. That's the philosophy.
— Please tell us about the idea of networking events. Today is your first networking meeting among Sea Breeze residents and guests of the complex. Please tell us about the idea of networking events.
— We decided to organize a Morning Party & Networking format—a gathering where people could connect more, find like-minded people, and discover new common ground. Some may have projects they want to develop and present. The idea is simple: get to know each other, share ideas, live a brighter life, and smile. We're smiling right now, and that's great! I want these meetings to help people find inspiration and new opportunities. After all, that's where true energy and development lie.
— Mr Panchilov, how important is a creative approach to creating projects like these, and to what extent do you adhere to it?
— For me, a creative approach is a reflection of the inner world of a person who strives to create a dignified, beautiful, and atmospheric space around themselves. It's a certain "vibe."
For example, when you arrive in Bali, you immediately feel the so-called "Balinese vibe": open, friendly, smiling, peace-loving people. And this is what creates an amazing atmosphere you want to be in, where you enjoy the simplest things. Dubai, for example, has a completely different image—it's like Disneyland for adults: glitter, luxury, chic, where everything is expensive, impressive, and beautiful.
For me, beauty is when a space is flawless, and everything is perceived harmoniously and pleasantly.I feel like Azerbaijan is exactly that kind of place. It has an amazing vibe: the people are open, kind, wise, and eager to support us wholeheartedly. It's an Eastern philosophy with a special depth. And this kindness and sincerity are incredibly inspiring and help us develop what we do here.
— Please, tell us about the beauty of Azerbaijan and your impressions of your first visit here.
— I first came here just a year ago, in May. I was amazed by the way I was greeted: at 5:30 in the morning, music was playing at the airport, and I was greeted with smiles and joy. It was unexpected and very touching. I was immediately taken to the Eternal Flame, shown the soldiers' graves, and told about the tragic pages of history. Then we visited the cemetery where Heydar Aliyev is buried, where I paid my respects. From the very first days, I realized that the beauty of Azerbaijan lies, first and foremost, in its people. Warm, warm-hearted, sincere. Nature is certainly mesmerizing—the forests, rivers, and mountains. We especially enjoy mountain trips, like Shahdag. We've been living here for a year now and feel truly at home. I feel comfortable, calm, and truly love it here.
— Let's talk about art. You mentioned that you plan to host art exhibitions in your space. To what extent do you think art and sport intertwine? One provides the energy of movement, the other a space for reflection?
— Absolutely right. Art is one of the most vibrant forms of human expression: through paintings, sculptures, and music. And I'm sure it blends beautifully with sport, as together they create a shared energy, fostering a creative atmosphere in which people can fully live and create. We're always in favor of creativity—whether it's expressed through music, painting, sculpting, or other creative forms. It's priceless for us, because artists create something timeless. It imbues the space with special meaning.
— And finally, what would you wish for Global Art magazine?
— I want to wish you even more inspiration and creative results! Be inspired and create! May your magazine attract people who will be inspired by your existing projects and, in turn, create even more beauty in this world.
— Thank you for such warm wishes! We wish you and your project prosperity and great success!
Interview conducted by Jamala Nakhchivani, Editor-in-Chief of Global Art Magazine.
