Monument to Kazakh Artist Abylkhan Kasteyev Unveiled in Taldykorgan

Taldykorgan, The Gulf Observer: A monument honoring Abylkhan Kasteyev, a prominent Kazakh artist and one of the founders of Kazakh fine art, was unveiled today in Taldykorgan, the administrative center of the Zhetysu region, as reported by the local akimat.

The ceremony was attended by a number of dignitaries, including the Governor of Zhetysu region Beibit Issabayev, statesmen Myrzatay Zholdasbekov and Kuanysh Sultanov, renowned Kazakh writer Beksultan Nurzhekeuly, Abylkhan Kasteyev’s daughter Guldariya Kasteyeva, and Omirzbek Zhubaniyazov, Chairman of the Union of Artists of Kazakhstan, along with various intellectuals from the region. The monument was crafted by sculptors Rinat Abenov and Yerbol Ziyabekov.

Speaking to journalists, Sauran Kasteyev, the artist’s grandson, shared his inspiration, stating that he chose to follow in his grandfather’s artistic footsteps. “We grew up admiring my grandfather’s paintings from a very young age. I especially liked the picture of mountains that he painted in watercolor. Now I work in the field of painting, graphics, and illustration. We are very happy and proud that the works of our grandfather Abylkhan are highly valued and honored by the people,” he expressed.

Following the unveiling, a republican conference was held at the Zhansugurov Palace of Culture, featuring presentations of books titled “Abylkhan Kasteyev” and “Omir Mektebi,” which are dedicated to the artist’s life and creativity.

Tomorrow, Shezhin village in the Panfilov district of Zhetysu region, recognized as the artist’s birthplace, will host a republican plein-air event that will bring together around 20 professional painters and artists from across the country. The event is scheduled to run until October 10 and will culminate in an exhibition at the Kasteyev Art Gallery in Zharkent.

Kazakhstan will celebrate the 120th anniversary of Abylkhan Kasteyev in 2024, marking a significant milestone in the recognition of his contributions to the arts.