A Vision for Bukhara

By Gayane Umerova
Commissioner of the Bukhara Biennial

Bukhara has always stirred the human imagination – a crossroads of culture, knowledge, and craftsmanship for over two millennia. Hosting Uzbekistan’s first international art biennial here is not about looking back, but looking forward. This ancient city, with its living traditions and vibrant communities, is once again stepping onto the global cultural stage.

The Bukhara Biennial reflects a wider national vision: to revitalise heritage not as a static memory, but as a foundation for creative futures. At the Uzbekistan Art and Culture Development Foundation (ACDF), we have worked with global experts – from UNESCO to Wilmotte & Associés – to turn historic sites into spaces for contemporary creation and public engagement.

Curated by Diana Campbell, Recipes for Broken Hearts brings together global and regional artists alongside Uzbekistan’s master artisans. Remarkably, every work was produced here, in Uzbekistan – a tribute to the enduring power of local craft and collaboration.

Our newly created Cultural District spans restored landmarks like Magoki Attori Mosque and centuries-old caravanserais, reimagined by architect Wael Al Awar as inclusive, sustainable venues. Since its establishment in 2017, the ACDF has been dedicated to amplifying Uzbekistan’s cultural voice on the global stage – from Venice and Paris to London, Milan, Beijing, and beyond. Now with Bukhara Biennial, this is just one step in a national cultural renaissance led by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and supported by Saida Mirziyoyeva – from Tashkent’s Centre for Contemporary Arts, Aral Culture Summit to the upcoming National Museum of Uzbekistan conceived by Tadao Ando.

The Bukhara Biennial is a milestone on this journey – a space where young people can see themselves reflected, where local meets global, and where heritage inspires the future. We are especially proud to host On Weaving, the AlMusalla Prize-winning installation by EAST Architecture Studio, AKT II, and Rayyane Tabet – a beautiful reflection on memory, architecture, and Islamic heritage.

The Bukhara Biennial is a platform for young voices, heritage, and innovation to meet. It is where stories are shared, futures imagined, and creativity celebrated. 

This is only the beginning. To everyone who joined us – thank you. You are now part of Bukhara’s evolving story.