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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.

Syrmak, 1960. K. Abdukarimova

Suraganova

Syrmak, 1960. K. Abdukarimova

Tuskiiz is a traditional Kazakh felt wall carpet made using the quilting and appliqué techniques.The basis of its composition is a traditional image of a P-shaped arch (mihrab) filled with nine floral motifs made using the appliqué technique from multicoloured felt. Against a burgundy background, four-leaf clover motifs with whimsical figures “flying” in a circle symbolise the global idea of movement, the passage of time and flame.The centre of the carpet, made of pastel crimson felt, is decorated with artistic stitching. It diverges from the centre, forming a dynamic square framed by a su ornek pattern running with and against the sun. The composition is completed with circular motifs enclosed in triangles. The centre is accentuated by a border of undyed felt decorated with a plain cord pattern.The top and bottom of the carpet are decorated with tassels and fringes.