A Breakout Year for Kazakhstan's Contemporary Art Scene
2025 was a landmark year for contemporary art in Kazakhstan, marking a pivotal shift from niche circles to mainstream global recognition. The nation’s art scene expanded beyond urban centers, entered international dialogues, and became an integral part of Kazakhstan’s cultural identity. New institutions, landmark exhibitions, and collaborations signaled a transformative era for Kazakhstani art.
New Museums and Art Spaces in Kazakhstan
Almaty emerged as the epicenter of this artistic revolution, hosting the inauguration of several key institutions that redefined the region’s art infrastructure.
Opening of the Almaty Museum of Arts (ALMA)
On September 12, 2025, the Almaty Museum of Arts (ALMA) opened its doors, establishing itself as one of Central Asia’s largest contemporary art museums. Designed by the British architectural firm Chapman Taylor, ALMA spans 10,000 square meters and features expansive exhibition halls, an Art Street atrium, and creative workshop spaces. The museum’s collection comprises around 700 works, predominantly by notable Kazakhstani artists such as Zhanatai Shardenov, Tokbolat Togyzbayev, and Rustem Khalfin.
ALMA’s mission extends beyond local significance, aiming to position Kazakhstani contemporary art within a global cultural context. The museum’s inaugural exhibition, “I Understand Everything” by Almagul Menlibayeva, underscores its commitment to showcasing groundbreaking contemporary works.
Tselinny Center of Contemporary Culture: A Revitalized Space
Just days prior, on September 5, 2025, the Tselinny Center of Contemporary Culture was launched in Almaty. Housed in a restored 1964 Soviet-era cinema, the center underwent nearly seven years of renovation led by British architect Asif Khan. The building’s sgraffito by artist Evgeny Sidorkin was preserved, blending historical elements with modern functionality.
The Tselinny Center features an exhibition hall, library, cafe, and workshop areas, serving as a hub for artistic exchange. Its opening performance, BARSAKELMES, was free to the public, reflecting the center’s commitment to accessible art education and creative dialogue.
A. Kasteev State Museum of Arts: A New Chapter in Contemporary Art
2025 also saw the A. Kasteev State Museum of Arts, Kazakhstan’s primary national art institution, redefine its role. Celebrating its 90th anniversary, the museum was granted National Museum status. In tandem, a new gallery dedicated to contemporary Kazakhstani art from the independence period was unveiled.
The exhibition “Memory. Space. Progress” highlighted works by leading artists, tracing the evolution of artistic practice from the 1990s to the present. Contributors included members of the Shymkent-based Red Tractor group, Almaty conceptualists, and avant-garde figures such as Sergey Maslov, Rashid Nurekeyev, and Said Atabekov. The exhibition featured a diverse range of media, from installations to video art, showcasing the depth and breadth of contemporary Kazakhstani art.
Global Collaborations and International Recognition
The year 2025 was not just about new institutions; it was also marked by increased international collaborations and recognition. Kazakhstani artists and curators engaged with global art communities, participating in international exhibitions and dialogues. This exchange fostered a deeper understanding of Kazakhstani art on the world stage, further solidifying the nation’s place in the global contemporary art landscape.
The Impact on Kazakhstan’s Cultural Fabric
The surge in contemporary art activities in 2025 has had a profound impact on Kazakhstan’s cultural fabric. Art is no longer confined to professional circles but has become a visible and accessible part of daily life. The new museums and art spaces have created platforms for artistic expression, education, and community engagement, enriching the cultural experience for both locals and visitors.
Looking Ahead
As Kazakhstan continues to invest in its art infrastructure and foster artistic talent, the future looks promising for the nation’s contemporary art scene. The momentum gained in 2025 is expected to carry forward, with more exhibitions, festivals, and collaborations on the horizon. The country’s art scene is poised for sustained growth, contributing to its cultural and economic development.
In conclusion, 2025 was indeed a breakout year for contemporary art in Kazakhstan, marking a decisive acceleration in the nation’s cultural evolution. With new institutions, landmark exhibitions, and global collaborations, Kazakhstani art has emerged as a dynamic and influential force on the international stage.
