On 15 November, the international painting exhibition “Central Asia: Great Past and Great Future” opened at the Central Exhibition Hall of the Academy of Arts of Uzbekistan as part of the International Congress “Spiritual Heritage and Enlightenment in Central Asia.” The exhibition featured ten artworks from each republic and from Azerbaijan, creating a diverse display that reflected the cultural richness of the region.

Turkmenistan presented artworks by outstanding artists such as Charymyrat Yazmyradov, Toyly Chopanov, Gahryman Gochmyradov, Rakhman Umarov, Maksat Hudayberdiyev, and Hojamukhammet Churiyev. In their works, the artists explore and promote the cultural heritage of the Turkmen people, drawing on its literary and historical roots.

During the opening ceremony, the organizers solemnly awarded the gold medal of the Union of Artists of Uzbekistan to Charymyrat Yazmyradov, Chairman of the Union of Artists of Turkmenistan. The award was presented as a symbol of recognition for his significant contribution to the development of intercultural relations and the deepening of artistic dialogue among the Central Asian states.

In addition to the exhibition, a meeting of artists from Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan was held under the title “Great History — Great Future.” Participants discussed shared artistic traditions, including the influence of Persian art, as well as contemporary trends and challenges facing the region’s art sector. 

The main focus was on creating a unified cultural space and strengthening cooperation in the field of fine arts. Participants emphasized the importance of developing creative ties among artists of the region, preserving artistic heritage, and shaping common conceptual directions in contemporary art.

The discussions also touched upon issues related to the development of national art schools, cultural integration, and prospects for creative collaboration.