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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.

Mural “Peace”. Sponsor: Tikkurila. Astana, 7 G. Musrepov Street. 2022 Photo from the air_g_art profile: https://www.instagram.com/p/Clnvy4 WgLyr/

Sketch by: Magira Tleuberdina (@magnificum9). Creative collective: Air-G (air_g_art): Nikolai Selyutin, Aidar Munaitbasov, Almaz Abdygalikov, Vladislav Mukha, Damir Zhumabekov.

Художник Али Закир (Ali Zakir)

This monumental mural, created in the style of urban art and illustrative painting, combines elements of traditional and contemporary culture. The central figure of the composition – a smiling girl in traditional headwear – is depicted with a universally recognisable gesture calling for peace. The word ‘peace’, rendered in the style of Arabic calligraphy above the figure’s head, emotionally reinforces the humanistic focus of the image. The colour palette, creating a vivid visual contrast, reflects traditional notions of the sacredness of heaven and earth in the brightness of the blue and the warmth of the ochre.The ornate shawl enveloping the girl features an image of the popular amulet – the ‘Nazar Bondzhuk’ or ‘Eye of Fatima’ – used as a talisman.The mural visualises a call for peace, light and the need to protect children in general, and girls in particular.