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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.

Adyrna

An ancient Kazakh stringed musical instrument. Ykylas Museum of Musical Instruments

Адырна.

The complex technology of manufacturing an archaic musical instrument is more evident in the multi-stringed instrument called the adyrna. Its history dates back to the musical art of the ancient Turks. Early forms of this wooden instrument, covered with leather, resembled a bow or the generalised figures of horned animals such as deer, goats, etc. The instrument is hollow inside, and its strings are made of camel or sinew thread. The instrument is small in size: 48–50 cm long and 8–10 cm thick. The adyrna has 7 to 13 strings.