The ancient city of Bukhara, a symbol of national pride and statehood, is today hosting a historic event - the first International Bukhara Biennale. This is not only a moment of honor for the art community, but also for our entire nation. For centuries, Bukhara has been recognized as a center of the Eastern Renaissance, a cradle of culture, science, and creative thought.
The inaugural Bukhara Biennale serves as a unique platform to showcase our centuries-old history, the traditions inherited from our ancestors, and the craftsmanship that continues to be preserved with great care. Artists, artisans, chefs, and poets are enriching the city’s ancient monuments with beauty, harmony, and the spirit of national values. Bukhara has transformed into a living space where art and life seamlessly unite - a sight that fills us all with pride.
This major event has attracted wide interest from the international community. Today, Bukhara is being recognized as a place that brings together creative minds from across the globe, a city that celebrates and deeply values art. The Biennale strengthens Uzbekistan’s cultural standing worldwide, drawing leading artists and artisans to our country.
One of the highlights of the Biennale is the “AlMusalla” project, first presented at the Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah. Now, in Bukhara, it takes on a new form beside the spiritual landmark of the Kalon Mosque. As a symbol of the harmony between past and present, it invites reflection and inner peace. With the support of the Diriyah Biennale Foundation and other partners, Uzbekistan has become the first country to adopt this installation as part of its cultural heritage, with Bukhara as its renewed home.
Bukhara is not only the pride of our nation, but also a treasure for all humanity. For centuries, it has given the world artistic gems — from mosque domes to silk carpets, gold embroidery, miniature painting, wood carving, and the musical tradition of Shashmaqom. This legacy is invaluable not only to our people, but to the entire world. Hosting the first Biennale in such a rich cultural setting is both a natural event and a historic necessity.
Today, culture is more than a source of beauty and inspiration. It is a strategic resource that shapes our international image and strengthens our reputation. Through art, we express our national identity, build bridges of dialogue among peoples, and inspire the younger generation toward creativity and new ways of thinking. In this sense, the Bukhara Biennale is turning Uzbekistan into a distinctive cultural brand and a limitless space of creativity and inspiration.
For the community of Bukhara State University, active participation in this Biennale is an honorable responsibility. It offers our students and young scholars the chance to engage closely with global artistic achievements. We are confident that this prestigious forum will not only raise the international standing of our city and our country, but will also instill in our youth a respect for national heritage while encouraging them to think globally.
