News

Today, our university hosted the grand opening of the international exhibition “Heritage That Has Overcome Time – The Great Silk Road.”

The main goal of the exhibition is to highlight the historical significance of the Great Silk Road, to present its cultural, economic, and civilizational role, and to reveal the art and historical relics of the peoples who lived along this ancient trade route through the popularization of cultural heritage.

The exposition features 41 works of art by masters from Turkey, China, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Azerbaijan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Syria, and Iran. Visitors can admire unique pieces of art — calligraphy, illumination, miniature painting, wood carving, pearl inlay, metal engraving, jewelry made from precious stones, and exquisite silk art.

Opening the event, Levent Gürcan, Consul General of the Republic of Turkey in Turkistan, noted:

“Today’s event — this important exhibition — is of great significance, as it helps to promote the historical and cultural heritage of the Great Silk Road by showcasing works of art that serve as a spiritual legacy to the Turkic world. I would like to thank all the participants and talented artisans who contributed to this project, and express my gratitude to the university administration and staff for their support in organizing this event.”

Next, Rector Zhanar Temirbekova addressed the guests:

“Dear guests and students! Today, another important event is taking place at our university’s Cultural Center. As you know, there is no Turk whose heart does not respond to the words ‘Silk Road’. It is one of the greatest and most important legacies of our deep history.

We express our gratitude to the organizers and artists of this exhibition. May it be seen not only by us but by many others as well. I believe our students will draw spiritual inspiration from it.”

The Professor Nacı Genç, Representative of the Rector, also emphasized the importance of the exhibition and stated that preserving the history of the Great Silk Road is a duty of both our generation and future ones.

The author of the project, Meryem Güney, Head of the Art Department of the Human and Culture Movement, said:

“Our goal is to bring together scientists and artists, identify shared values, pave the way for joint projects, and contribute new works to the world of science and art.

So far, we have organized symposiums and panels dedicated to the history of the Silk Road — its map, key centers, religion, games, science and art, language and literature, architecture, and trade. We have also prepared a symposium volume containing the presentations of respected scholars. I believe such projects bring Turkic nations even closer together. I would like to thank all the institutions that supported us and the staff of Akhmet Yassawi University.”

After the congratulatory speeches, Consul General Levent Gürcan, Rector Zhanar Temirbekova, Professor Nacı Genç, Representative of the Rector, and Meryem Güney cut the ribbon to officially open the exhibition. Guests viewed the artworks and took commemorative photographs.

The event also resonates with the country’s declaration of 2025 as the Year of the Working People, emphasizing respect for artisans who preserve and pass on cultural heritage through their craft. The signature of the Silk Road artisans is not only a symbol of historical legacy but also a testament to the creative energy and perseverance of the working individual.

It is worth noting that in the coming days, artists will hold master classes, and scholars will deliver significant presentations. The exhibition will remain open until October 25.