On July 25, 2025, at 4:00 PM, the Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan proudly presents the anniversary art exhibition “MASTER OF TRIUMPHANT COLOR”, dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the birth of the outstanding Kazakhstani painter, Honored Art Worker of the Kazakh SSR, and People’s Artist of the Kazakh SSR, Moldakhmet Syzdykovich Kenbayev (1925–1993).
Moldakhmet Kenbayev was one of the founders of the Kazakh school of painting and the first professional Kazakh artist whose work became a symbol of a new visual era in 20th-century Kazakhstani art. For his outstanding contribution to the development of national culture, he was awarded the titles of “Honored Art Worker of the Kazakh SSR” and “People’s Artist of the Kazakh SSR.” His works are distinguished by a deep sense of national identity, vivid color palette, and special attention to human emotions, everyday life, and historical themes.
The anniversary exhibition will feature both early and later works by the artist, including some of his most renowned paintings:
“Horse Capturing” – one of the artist’s most vivid and dynamic works, painted in 1961. The original canvas is part of the collection of the State Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow. A copy of the work (an authorial repetition) has been acquired by the Abylkhan Kasteyev State Museum of Arts of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
“Conversation” – Composition and Plot:
The scene unfolds across the celebrated expanse of the steppe, where the figures of horsemen form the focal point of the composition, surrounded by the gentle haze of the horizon line that is emphasizing a sense of infinity and unity with nature. The painting was created during the artist’s most prolific period and is part of the collection of the A. Kasteyev State Museum of Arts. It forms a foundational piece, each brushstroke contributing to the vibrant palette of national art in the 1950s. “Conversation” is frequently featured in major museum exhibitions, including international showcases in London and other countries, fostering cultural dialogue among Turkic peoples. In 2021, the National Bank of Kazakhstan stylized the painting’s image on a 500 tenge silver coin from the “Fine Arts” series, further highlighting the work’s significance as a cultural symbol.
Monumental Mosaics by M.S. Kenbayev (1960s–1980s)
Moldakhmet Kenbayev made a tremendous contribution to the development of monumental art in Kazakhstan, particularly through mosaics on public buildings. His works merged folk themes, traditional ornamentation, and a modern socialist style, creating a unique cultural environment.
Key Features of His Mosaics:
- National Color: scenes of Kazakh daily life, epic tales, music, and labor.
- Dynamic Composition: figures in motion, with strong, contrasting lines.
- Vivid Palette: rich colors dominated by reds, ochres, and deep blues.
- Ornamentation: Integration of folkloric patterns and symbols (shanyrak, qobyz, yurt, and others.).
Famous Mosaics by the People’s Artist:
- Moldakhmet Kenbayev’s panel on the façade of the hotel “Alma-Ata” – One of the most striking works of monumental art in Soviet Kazakhstan, created in the style of socialist realism with elements of Kazakh decorative art.
- “Girl with a Souvenir” – Originally adorned the façade of the Department Store “Kazakhstan” building at 40 Dostyk Avenue, Almaty.
- A monumental mosaic panel on the façade of the Kazakh National Women’s Pedagogical University (formerly ZhenPI), now visible from Aiteke Bi Street, was created in the 1960s–70s by artists Moldakhmet Kenbayev and Nikolai Tsivchinsky.
These mosaics became an integral part of the architectural landscape of Soviet Kazakhstan. They not only beautified the cities but also conveyed ideas of national identity, blending folklore with modernity. Today, some of Kenbayev’s works are being restored as cultural heritage monuments.
The exhibition aims not only to pay tribute to the Great Master but also to showcase his contribution to shaping the national artistic language and his role as a mentor to an entire generation of Kazakhstani artists. Kenbayev’s works serve as a bridge between tradition and modernity, they are reflection of the history and soul of the Kazakh people on canvas.
The exhibition will feature around 100 works by the People’s Artist.
As part of the official opening, one of Moldakhmet Kenbayev’s paintings will be donated by his family to the Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan, enriching its painting collection with another unique piece by the artist.
The event will be attended by representatives of the Akimat of Almaty, members of the academic and creative community, cultural and art figures, and all those who honor the memory of Moldakhmet Kenbayev.
The exhibition will run until August 10, 2025.
