About

Publications

Knowledge Database

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.

Wall alasha carpet, 20 th c.

Mid-20th century. Jambyl Region. Collection of the Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Wall alasha carpet, 20 th c.

Before us is a fine example of a wall-hanging alash, distinguished by its harmonious colour scheme and rich geometric patterns. In keeping with tradition, the composition is arranged vertically.The ornamental decoration includes diamond-shaped sharshy motifs, as well as botakoz, ormekshi and keregekoz patterns. The narrow bands are adorned with irex ornamentation. This combination creates a complex yet balanced rhythmic system.Semantically, the sharshy (diamond) is associated with the symbolism of the earth, fertility and stability; botakoz (‘camel’s eye’) is traditionally interpreted as a talisman, a symbol of vigilance and protection; ormekshi (‘spider’) is associated with the idea of connection, the weaving of fate and the continuity of existence; keregekoz (‘kerege cell’) resembles the latticework structure of a yurt and symbolises home and ancestral space, whilst irexu (wave-like ornament) corresponds to the image of water – the source of life, movement and purification.The dominant colour of the carpet is a noble shade of red-burgundy, creating a sense of warmth and inner strength. Combined with green, blue, black and white yarn, it forms a rich yet harmonious palette.