On March 16, 2026, at 11:00 AM, the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan, together with the Union of Kazakh Ethno-Designers, will organize and host the international festival and scientific-practical conference “Nomadic Art: The Global Image of the Great Steppe Culture”, dedicated to March 16 — Day of Culture and National Traditions.
Since 2024, by order of the President, the concept of the Decade of Nauryznama has been approved in the country, aimed at restoring the original meaning of the Nauryz holiday and fully revealing its spiritual and cultural significance. One of the key values of the people is their national traditions and customs. According to this concept, March 16 has been designated as the Day of Culture and National Traditions. For a people whose daily life has long been closely intertwined with traditions, their preservation, development, and harmonious presence in modern life remain relevant at all times. On this day, special attention is paid to the rich cultural heritage of the nation and the awareness of its importance for future generations.
The festival aims to reinterpret and revive national artifacts through the lens of contemporary ethno-design, promote nomadic culture globally, and strengthen international creative connections. The festival program includes:
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Scientific-practical conference: “National Heritage – A Legacy for Descendants: The Synthesis of Museum Artifacts and Ethno-Design”
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Fashion Show: Showcases of ethno-collections by domestic and international designers
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Craft Fair: International fair of decorative and applied arts masters
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Master Classes: Interactive workshops on reviving ancient technologies
TOP 5 EXCLUSIVE FESTIVAL DIRECTIONS:
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World Craft Cities Showcase: Exclusive exhibitions from Kazakh cities recognized as World Craft Cities:
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Taraz – the peak of soft art (felt-making)
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Turkestan – art born from the earth (ceramics)
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Almaty – symbol of nobility (jewelry art)
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Ethno-Fashion Show: “Steppe Runway” – an exclusive fashion show combining national motifs with Haute Couture style. Leading domestic and international designers will present new facets of nomadic culture aesthetics.
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Fumage (Smoke Painting): Performance and master class in a rare artistic technique using fire and smoke — a unique art format bringing the mysterious imagery of nomadic culture to life.
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Ethnographic Exhibition: A dialogue between ancient artifacts and original installations by contemporary artists.
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Experimental Master Classes: Interactive spaces dedicated to unconventional visual art techniques and authorial artistic styles.
Creative coworking and workshops: Visitors will be able to view exhibitions and participate in master classes on bone crafting — an art included in the UNESCO National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Guests can also engage directly in felt-making, ceramics, and jewelry creation under the guidance of masters.
Business & Strategy: Global Integration: During the festival, B2B meetings with WCC experts will take place, where strategic agreements will be signed to promote Central Asian artisans in international markets. “Nomadic Art” is not nostalgia for the past, but the transformation of its valuable heritage into a successful brand for the future.
Strategic agreements will be signed between the Union of Ethno-Designers of Kazakhstan and international organizations, and domestic artisans will receive certificates of international level. The event aims to enhance Almaty’s tourist potential and position the city as a cultural and creative hub of Central Asia.
Contact Phones:
264-55-66, 8 707 598 57 53
