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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.

Earrings

South Kazakhstan. Silver, bent, carved, embossed. A. Kasteyev National Museum of Arts of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Сырға (серьги) составного типа, повседневно-декоративные

Syrga — drop earrings of a composite type, characteristic of the South Kazakhstani tradition of jewellery art of the 20th century. The piece belongs to the category of everyday decorative forms and is distinguished by its compact yet expressive design.The material is silver; the techniques used include bending, chasing and carving. The ornamentation is created through linear engraving and relief work on the surface.The design consists of a suspension system attached to a hook-shaped clasp. The main element is a geometric plate with a central circular opening, within which a movable spherical element is placed. The lower part is complemented by several pendants with spherical ends, attached to short rods.The composition is constructed along an axial principle with a clear vertical orientation. The central opening with the movable element serves as the compositional core. The lower hangers form a rhythmic conclusion and enhance the form’s dynamism. The interplay of voids and volumes plays a significant role in the visual perception of the piece.The ornamental scheme combines geometric and linear motifs. The surface of the plate is decorated with incisions and simple ornamental elements that emphasise the form. The movable spherical elements serve both a decorative and an acoustic function, creating a subtle sound effect when in motion. Overall, the piece demonstrates a characteristic combination of simplicity of design and expressive movement.