Exquisite wood carved items by Uzbek masters on display

July 29, 2011

A miscellany of exquisitely carved wooden items is on display at the Center of National Arts in Tashkent. Titled “The Tree of Eternity”, the exhibition features over 200 pieces created by 15 masters of Ortiq Fayzullayev`s School of Art in Tashkent and is dedicated to Uzbekistan`s 20th independence anniversary.

Organized by the Fund Forum and IJOD Association of Artists, Art Historians and Craftsmen, the exhibition highlights the art of wood carving, one of the most popular types of traditional arts in Uzbekistan. The art show is an opportunity to witness the subtle beauty of wood carved masterpieces such as decorative plates, laukhs (book stands), folding screens and even doors.

The exhibits are representative of the school of art headed by prominent Uzbek master Ortiq Fayzullayev. On display are works by his apprentices such as S. Rakhmatullayev, T. Fayzullayev, G. Yuldashev, K. Turdikulov and K. Valiyev among others.

During independence years as major construction projects have been launched the art of wood carving has seen a sharp increase in its popularity as it has been incorporated into buildings` facades and exterior design.

Despite being advanced in his age, master Fayzullayev is still very prolific and continues to create wood carved marvels. He and his group of apprentices have participated in numerous high-profile construction projects in Tashkent. More specifically, he has contributed to the exterior design of the Palace of International Forums, Oliy Majlis (Parliament) building, Tashkent Mayor`s Office and the Gallery of National Dress among others.

Fayzullayev regularly participates in Bazar-Art Exhibition of Applied Fair, a project overseen by the Fund Forum, and has emerged as a winner of the fair in the category “For preservation and development of Tashkent school of wood carving”. His apprentice Sirojiddin Rakhmatullayev won in the Fair this spring in the category “Master of wood carving”.

Nowadays, Fayzullayev`s apprentices have been recognized as masters who now teach skills to a large number of boys. Tashkent School of Wood Carving is continuing to develop dynamically, with masters working to contribute to the preservation of the art as unique as woodcarving.

Uzbek masters` works adorn buildings in many countries around the world and have been highly evaluated by specialists. Their creations are often seen at international exhibitions and applied art fairs.

The exhibition will run through September 12, 2011.