“WOUNDED STEPPE”: THE SOLO EXHIBITION BY KONYR MUKHAMEDIEV
On August 26, 2026, the Abai State Historical, Cultural and Literary Memorial Museum-Reserve “Zhidebai-Borili” hosted the grand opening of “Wounded Steppe”, a solo art exhibition by Konyr Abdildauly Mukhamediev, Honoured Worker of Kazakhstan, member of the Union of Artists of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and laureate of the international “Turan” Award. The exhibition was dedicated to the 35th anniversary of the closure of the Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site.
Through Konyr Mukhamediev’s artworks, visitors can sense the spirit of his native land, the silent mysteries of nature, the weight of time, and the profound connection between humanity and the earth.
The museum director, Ulan Bolatuly Sagadiev, officially opened the exhibition, highlighting its significance and sharing his reflections on its importance.
During the event, speeches were delivered by Marat Serikzhanuly Kurmanbay, Deputy of the Abai Regional Maslikhat and Head of the “Abyraly-Degelen” Public Foundation and the “Committee Polygon 21” Association; Olzhas Amangeldyuly Sogymbay, Deputy Head of the Regional Department of Culture, Language Development and Archival Affairs; Madvakas Seksembayuly, art specialist and professor; writer Shaimardan Akhmaruly Kaliakparov; Manas Tolebekuly, Head of the Abai Regional Union of Designers; and Alin Murat Seisengazyuly, Chairman of the Abai Regional Council of Veterans. The speakers emphasized the exhibition’s significance and its profound message.
The programme was enriched by a musical performance from Bakhytzhan Tuktibayev, a soloist of the Amre Kashaubayev Philharmonic, whose songs complemented the atmosphere and artistic spirit of the exhibition.
The exhibition’s author, Konyr Abdildauly Mukhamediev, shared his thoughts on his artistic journey, the theme of the nuclear test site, and his deep connection with his native land.
The exhibition was not merely an occasion to remember the past, but also a meaningful cultural event encouraging reflection on the value of peace, care for one’s homeland, and the preservation of historical memory.
The event was attended by representatives of the Regional Department of Culture, Language Development and Archival Affairs, members of the intellectual community, artists, members of the Union of Artists of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and professionals from the cultural and artistic sectors.
