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Traditional and contemporary art of Kazakhstan

A Virtual Journey into the World of Kazakhstan’s Artistic Heritage

This Web Gallery presents the diversity of artistic practices in Kazakhstan, reflecting the continuity of cultural traditions and the dynamic development of contemporary creative processes. The virtual exhibition features works based on national images, symbols, and themes, as well as artworks by contemporary artists who reinterpret the country’s cultural heritage through contemporary artistic forms, expressive means, and modern technologies.

The selected works demonstrate the relationship between traditional and contemporary art, revealing the distinctive features of the national worldview, cultural identity, and cultural meanings. The presented materials allow viewers to trace how elements of historical and cultural heritage are reflected in contemporary artistic practice, while maintaining their significance and relevance in an increasingly globalized world.

The Web Gallery is aimed at promoting Kazakhstan’s artistic heritage, expanding public access to works of art, and fostering a lasting interest in national culture and art among a wide audience.

Bedspread 20th c.

Collection of the State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan. 20th century. • Almaty Region • Velvet, cotton, sequins, coloured threads, satin stitch

Покрывало для кровати.

Such bedspreads were distinguished by their rich embroidery and vivid ornamentation.The composition of the bedspread is based on a horizontal frieze pattern. The surface of the piece is divided into two main sections. The upper part is filled with a dense ornamentation of stylised flowers, leaves and small decorative elements, which form a continuous rhythmic pattern extending along the entire length of the piece. The lower part is designed as a decorative, undulating scalloped edge, lending the composition expressiveness and a sense of completeness. Each scallop is adorned with floral motifs, which enhances the decorative effect and creates a smooth rhythm of repeating elements. This compositional structure creates a sense of the ornament’s continuity and a harmonious decorative flow across the entire surface of the piece.The rich floral ornamentation, polychromatic colour scheme, and use of velvet and decorative sequins create a vivid artistic image that reflects the traditions of folk embroidery.