Turkish artists exhibit miniature art to strengthen cultural ties in Kazakhstan

Turkish artists Taner Alakuş and Yasemin Akyol presented a miniature art exhibition titled "IZLEK" at the OzgeEpic center in Astana, Kazakhstan.

Supported by the Embassy of Türkiye in Kazakhstan, the event showcased traditional miniature techniques blended with contemporary interpretations. The artists chose the title because of its literary meaning in Turkish and its similarity to the Kazakh word for "trace." Taner Alakuş, an academic and artist who established a workshop in Istanbul, has practiced miniature art since 1983.

He has produced approximately 400 works that have been displayed in countries including France, South Korea, China, and Russia. Alakuş stated that he uses these traditional lines and colors to create a universal language that connects different cultures. Yasemin Akyol added that she includes humor and playful details in her work to provide audiences with positive emotions and a sense of happiness. The artists emphasized that maintaining cultural identity is important as younger generations navigate changing trends.

Akyol noted that shared values between Kazakh and Turkish traditions, such as family values and respect for ancestors, can help young people connect with traditional art. Mustafa Kapucu, the Turkish Ambassador to Kazakhstan, said that the shared classical cultures of both nations provide a foundation for closer artistic ties. He suggested that direct cultural contacts like this exhibition strengthen relations between the people of both countries, which in turn supports political ties between the states.