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.

Terme alasha, second half of the 20th c.

2nd half of the 20th century. Atyrau Region. Collection of the Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Терме алаша из десяти полос

A unique type of bedspread in terms of its ornamental design – the terme alasha – is woven from ten multicoloured strips alternating in shades of yellow, orange and blue. The contrasting yet harmoniously balanced colour palette lends the piece a distinctive decorative expressiveness.The main patterns in the Kazakh tradition are known as ashtarkhan teru and qarmaq. Such figures are among the most archaic and are found in various configurations on Andronovo pottery. The qarmaq (‘hook’) motif is one of the oldest geometric elements found in the ornamental culture of Eurasia. It can be interpreted as a protective sign, a symbol of retention and defence. The term ‘ashtarkhan teru’ is of particular interest. The word ‘Ashtarkhan’ itself, in the Kazakh language, is the historical name for the city of Astrakhan (Turkic: Ashtarkhan, Khadzhi-Tarkhan). This place name was widely used in the steppe environment and became firmly established in the oral tradition.