The Central Asian art scene is set to reach new heights with the opening of the Almaty Museum of Arts, the first private museum of modern and contemporary art in the region. Scheduled to launch in the summer of 2025, the museum promises to connect Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage with the global art world.

“Art has the power to transform lives, and it once transformed mine,” Smagulov shared. His vision for the museum is to serve as a cultural bridge, showcasing Kazakhstan’s vibrant art scene while offering visitors a global perspective on modern and contemporary art.

Upcoming Exhibitions

The museum will open with two standout exhibitions:

Qonaqtar – A group exhibition drawn from the museum’s extensive collection.

I Understand Everything – A solo show by Kazakh artist Almagul Menlibayeva.

With its commitment to fostering curiosity, dialogue, and a deeper understanding of Central Asia’s rich artistic traditions, the Almaty Museum of Arts is set to become a cornerstone of the region’s cultural identity.

Mark your calendars for summer 2025 and prepare to explore a space where art meets innovation and regional voices find a global audience. This is more than just a museum—it’s a celebration of creativity and connection.

Highlights of the Almaty Museum of Arts

Location: Almaty, Kazakhstan

Design: A 9,400-square-metre architectural masterpiece by British firm Chapman Taylor

Founder: Nurlan Smagulov, President of Astana Group and one of Forbes Kazakhstan’s top billionaires

Collection: Over 700 artworks featuring Central Asian artists and global icons like Fernand Léger, Richard Serra, and Bill Viola

Leadership: Artistic Director Meruyert Kaliyeva and Chief Curator Inga Lāce