Uzbekistan will hold the first major art biennale in Bukhara

Uzbekistan is preparing to host the first major international biennale in Bukhara. In recent years, the country has been implementing an ambitious cultural program, including contemporary art. The biennale is organized and financed by Gayane Umerova, who heads the Art and Culture Development Fund of Uzbekistan (ACDF). “The Bukhara Biennale will be the largest and most diverse gathering of artists and craftsmen in Uzbekistan to date,” Umerova said in an official release. — The Biennale will provide local and international audiences with the opportunity to get acquainted with the art and cultural heritage of Uzbekistan. It will also create the necessary space to preserve traditions and expand access to our art scene.”

The concept of the first edition of the biennale was called “Recipes for Broken Hearts.” It is based on a local legend that the signature Uzbek pilaf recipe was created to heal the broken heart of a prince who was unable to marry the daughter of an artisan. This emphasizes that local cuisine will occupy an important place even in the art dialogue.

Diana Campbell from Los Angeles (heads the Dhaka Art Summit) was chosen as the curator of the Bukhara Biennale. And the opening ceremony on September 5, 2025 will be attended by the legendary sculptor Antony Gormley and artist Himali Singh Soin.