Museum of the Great Emptiness

Just a few kilometers from Bishkek lies the «Museum of the Great Emptiness,» a place whose very name hints at the extraordinary experience it offers. Situated in the village of Orto-Sai, this museum is, in fact, the home and workshop of the artist Alexei Skreplev, a remarkably creative and unconventional individual whose vibrant spirit shines through his paintings. The works of Alexei Skreplev are scattered throughout the house, some adorning the walls, others propped up against them, and there are even sketches of future masterpieces waiting to come to life. Visitors often compare Skreplev’s artwork to that of Salvador Dalí, as his paintings exude a sense of surrealism intertwined with striking, vivid colors.

The museum tour is led by Alexei himself, who makes it clear right from the start that entry is permitted only to those free from any aggressive or life-destroying intentions. Instead of a traditional ticket, visitors are asked to bring a tube of paint or cat food as their entrance fee.

Everything you see in this museum was built by Alexei’s own hands. Thirty years ago, he parted ways with his wife, leaving behind all worldly possessions, as he describes it, and began constructing «this space» from emptiness —or more accurately, from anything that came his way. The location of his home is no coincidence either; it sits at the foot of hills in the southern part of Bishkek, chosen for its serene and contemplative setting.

The paintings displayed throughout the museum vary widely in style. In addition to his canvases, Alexei has created a pyramid with a unique, mirrored structure that extends both upward and downward. Typically, the lower portion is filled with water, and to enter the pyramid, one must dive through. Exiting is done through the upper section, facing the «North Star.» Upon emerging from the pyramid, visitors find themselves on the rooftop of the house, where they are greeted by the «Rainbow Shower» and the «Mirror Terrace,» a perfect spot for meditation.

Visitors can spend hours wandering through the labyrinths of the «Emptiness,» gazing at the paintings, and pondering their meanings. Each glance inspires new thoughts, erasing all the ones that came before.

The «Museum of the Great Emptiness» leaves you filled with a powerful, inexplicable energy. If you have a passion for art, we highly recommend paying a visit to this museum to immerse yourself in the creative world of Alexei Skreplev and to support this remarkable local artist.

For more information or to arrange a visit, you can reach Alexei at: +996 312 55 03 11. The «Museum of the Great Emptiness» is located at: Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, Orto-Sai, Ormokoeva (Podgornaya) St., No. 31.