The Art Gallery of Uzbekistan, a contemporary architectural gem, graces the heart of Tashkent near the iconic Independence Square. It welcomed its first visitors in August 2004, but its story traces back to a decade earlier. In 1994, President Islam Karimov envisioned a repository for the burgeoning fine art collection curated by the National Bank for Foreign Economic Activity of Uzbekistan (NBU). As the collection outgrew the confines of the Bank’s gallery, the decision was made to establish a dedicated exhibition space.
Fast forward to today, and the Art Gallery of Uzbekistan stands as a paragon of art preservation and exhibition. Its sprawling main exhibition space covers 3,500 square meters and is divided into 15 distinct rooms, each designed to ensure the optimal display and conservation of artworks. Beyond these exhibition spaces, the Gallery is a hub of cultural activity, featuring a conference room, lecture hall, a cozy cinema hall, a well-stocked library, and a studio space for conducting master classes and workshops.
The Gallery’s heartbeat is its extensive collection, which showcases the evolution of Uzbek artistry across the 20th century and highlights the finest pieces by contemporary artists. While it primarily celebrates the nation’s artistic heritage, the Gallery also opens its doors to international artists, hosting exhibitions and cultural events that foster a global dialogue through the universal language of art.
Tours in Uzbekistan
