Tajikistan was among the participating countries at the first-ever Astana Art Fair, a major international contemporary art exhibition held from October 24 to 26 in the capital of Kazakhstan.
Representing Tajikistan at the fair were art manager Nasiba Karimova and artist Bahrom Ismatov, whose works were exhibited under the theme “Roots of the Future.” This year’s edition, hosted at the Congress Center in Astana, brought together over 200 participants, including artists, curators, and art historians from across the globe.
Tajik Art Gallery curator Nasiba Karimova told Asia-Plus that Ismatov presented nine paintings reflecting the fair’s central theme. His works, blending traditional Tajik elements with modern techniques, were well received by art professionals and visitors alike.
“He is developing a unique technique and texture in his artwork, which drew the attention of several experts,” said Karimova. One of Ismatov’s pieces attracted serious interest from potential buyers, and one painting was sold for $900.
“We’re proud that his works generated such interest, which is a testament to the growing art market in Central Asia,” Karimova noted.
The fair also served as a platform for dialogue and collaboration among international artists and curators, who exchanged ideas and discussed trends in the Central Asian art scene.
According to Karimova, artwork prices ranged from $1,000 and up, with local art collectors in Tajikistan often being the primary buyers.
She expressed gratitude to Tajikistan’s Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Khairullo Ibodzoda, for facilitating their participation, as well as to the organizing group Urpaq and the fair’s founder and creative director, Aizhan Kurmangaliyeva.
The Astana Art Fair marks a significant new event in the region’s cultural calendar, featuring participants from Turkiye, Russia, China, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Switzerland, and Dubai.
