In the evolving landscape of New Uzbekistan, the development of national fine and applied arts is not merely a cultural endeavour but a crucial component of socio-economic growth. The Third Renaissance, a significant goal set by the state, underscores this commitment. Under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the government has established a robust framework to showcase Uzbekistan’s rich artistic heritage and the innovative works of contemporary artists on an international stage.
Strategic vision for artistic growth
Central to this vision is the national development strategy, which, at this new historical juncture, includes the ambitious aim of fostering spiritual development and elevating the arts to unprecedented levels. The strategy’s 75th objective is particularly noteworthy: it focuses on advancing visual and applied arts and design, enhancing the population’s artistic and aesthetic appreciation, celebrating the legacies of renowned folk artists, and promoting Uzbekistan’s art globally. This comprehensive approach also emphasizes the importance of training highly skilled professionals in these creative fields.
The year 2023 marked significant milestones in celebrating Uzbekistan’s cultural icons. The 120th anniversary of People’s Artist Muhyiddin Rahimov and the 90th anniversary of Ortiq Faizullaev’s birth were commemorated with due reverence. Internationally, the legacy of Alisher Navoi and Usman Nasser was honored with bronze statues in Astana, Kazakhstan. Over the past three years, Uzbekistan has created 36 statues, 38 busts, 5 bas-reliefs, and 17 monumental monuments to honor its great ancestors. This period also saw numerous artists receiving state awards for their contributions.
International engagement and recognition
Uzbekistan’s artists and artisans have increasingly participated in international exhibitions, festivals, and competitions. Between 2020 and 2023, over 520 exhibitions, including two international sculpture symposiums, were organized. The expansion of the Academy of Arts, with nine new members added in 2023, further illustrates the growing recognition and support for the arts.
Establishing Art market infrastructure
A landmark development was the establishment of the “Art Gallery” auction house in Tashkent, in collaboration with the Union of Artists of Uzbekistan. This initiative includes a publishing house, an art appraisal company, and a specialized laboratory for art examination. In 2023, Uzbekistan hosted its first-ever auction of visual and applied art, marking a significant step in creating a structured art market.
Uzbekistan has been proactive in fostering cultural ties with neighboring and distant countries. Memorandums of cooperation have been signed with the Union of Artists of Tajikistan and Turkmenistan, and between the Museum of Oriental Miniature Art in Tashkent and the National Museum of Iran. Such collaborations have facilitated cultural exchanges and joint projects.
The Academy of Arts of Uzbekistan has established cooperation with educational institutions across 20 countries, enabling students to study and engage in creative exchanges internationally. Notably, the Center for Retraining Pedagogues and Specialists in Art Education was established in 2021, further improving the training system for educators in the fields of fine and applied arts, design, and art history.
Nurturing Young talent
To support young artists, the state has introduced the Kamoliddin Behzod State Scholarship, awarded to 21 students from 2021 to 2023. New educational literature on visual arts has been developed for specialized schools, ensuring the younger generation receives high-quality artistic education.
Commemorating artistic legacies
The government has also taken steps to honor the memories of past artists. The Surkhandarya specialized art boarding school was named after national artist Rozi Choriev, and the art school in Karakalpakstan after Jollibay Izentaev. The Republic’s creative competition, “Followers of Kamoliddin Behzod,” continues to celebrate the legacy of this great painter.
As New Uzbekistan moves forward, the development of fine and applied arts remains a priority. Plans are underway to reconstruct the Central Exhibition Hall, build a new modern gallery, and establish a center for young artists with 40 creative workshops. A national papermaking workshop will integrate calligraphy and miniature art education with practical skills.
These initiatives reflect a deep commitment to nurturing and promoting the arts, ensuring that the rich cultural heritage of Uzbekistan continues to thrive and gain recognition worldwide.
Credits: Original article by the Ministry of Culture of Uzbekistan
