In the heart of Samarkand, the Aysel Art Gallery and Art Studio stand as a testament to the rich tapestry of Uzbekistan’s artistic heritage. Established in 1992, this gallery has burgeoned into one of the largest and most successful in the city, serving as a vibrant hub for local artists who are members of the esteemed Academy of Arts of Uzbekistan.
Origins of Splendor: The roots of Aysel trace back to a modest art gallery named “Alphia,” born with a mission to promote the arts and crafts of Uzbekistan. From its inception, the gallery embraced the task of showcasing the cultural wealth and diversity of Uzbekistan’s artistic expression. A visual feast awaits as visitors traverse the gallery, encountering the finest works of Samarkand’s craftsmen, contemporary painters, and accomplished photographers.
Aysel’s artistic endeavors took a distinctive turn towards national silk fabrics, elevating the gallery to new heights. Experimentation with various treatment methods, a fusion of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary techniques, became the hallmark of Aysel. The gallery stands as a testament to the evolution of Uzbekistan’s textile artistry, celebrating the legacy passed down from generations.
Fashioning Tradition: Today, Aysel stands as a creative powerhouse, bringing together the talents of Samarkand’s fashion designers and textile artists. This collective breathes life into their unique visions and original ideas, manifested in stunning collections of ethnic clothing. The runway becomes a canvas where traditional embroidery, printed patterns, and decorative prints intertwine with fragments of ancient fabrics.
Inspired by their success in the fashion realm, the artisans behind Aysel ventured to create the Fashion Theater—a pioneering venture in Samarkand. This theater serves as a stage for the vibrant expressions of Samarkand designers, showcasing their latest collections to both local audiences and tourists. The Fashion Theater marries the intricate beauty of traditional Uzbek designs with contemporary global fashion trends, creating collections that are not just original but also thoroughly modern.
From Samarkand to the World: What began as a niche appreciation for ethnic styles has blossomed into a global phenomenon. A dress adorned with Uzbek influences is now a coveted item in the wardrobe of every fashion aficionado. The ethnic style, once a unique feature, has become a highlight at public events and fashionable gatherings. Uzbek fabrics, with their rich history, have not only captivated local audiences but have inspired renowned fashion designers in Europe and America, giving birth to new and enchanting sartorial narratives.
As you step into the Aysel Picture Gallery, you embark on a journey through the soul of Samarkand—an odyssey where tradition dances with modernity, and where the artistic spirit of Uzbekistan finds its most eloquent expression.
Address: 3, Registan str. Samarkand
Telephone: +99866 235-78-37, +99890 282-62-05, +99893 720-11-04, +99891 548-05-68
Orienting point: Registan Square, between Gur-Emir and Rukhabad
Open hours: from 09.00AM to 05.00PM
Website: www.aysel.co.uk