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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.

Dorba 20th c.

Place of manufacture unknown. Pile weaving. Collection of the Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Dorba 20th c.

A Dorba is a traditional bag used for storing and carrying tableware. The front of the piece is decorated with an ayshyq pattern, around which the craftswoman has arranged a kosmuyiz motif in the form of a wide border. An alaqurt ornament runs along the edges of the border, lending the composition additional rhythmic expressiveness. Around the entire perimeter, the item is edged with crocheted red mesh trim, finished with tassels of coloured threads, which enhances the decorative effect and creates a sense of completeness to the form. The ornamental design of the dorba combines the protective symbolism of horn and zigzag motifs with expressive colour accents, emphasising both the functional purpose of the object and its artistic value.