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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.

Ile-Karatal mural. @air_g_artPhoto: https://www.instagram.com/air_g_art/

The ‘AirG’ team of artists – air_g_art

Автор идеи и художник Темірлан АбеновMural by @temirlanmuralist@bekbass_art

The murals are located on the façades of two opposite buildings, separated by a passageway leading to Lake Balkhash.The theme of the murals is based on an ancient legend about the tragic love between the Ili and Karatal rivers, separated by the girl’s father – Lake Balkhash – which is reflected in their positioning and the vivid blue-and-white colour scheme.On the left is a young beauty – Ily – in traditional dress. The undulating and straight lines around her create a sense of movement and a connection with the element of water. On the right is the stern warrior Karatal in military garb. The composition is complemented by a tulpar flying in the distance and a ribbon of river.The mural is a unique message from the artists about the city of Balkhash as a place where symbols and legends live on, embodying the spirit of the location.