Askar Abuov

My name is Askar. I was born in 1972 and have lived my entire life in Almaty, Kazakhstan. I am an architect by education, having graduated from the Kazakh State Academy of Architecture and Construction in 1995. Architecture taught me to see structure and rhythm in every detail, which directly influences my artistic style-precise yet emotionally rich.

I’ve been working with oil painting for over 20 years and prefer using a palette knife, as it allows me to convey the energy of each stroke, the feel of texture, and the movement within form. In my works, you’ll find northern landscapes covered in snow, the dynamic force of ocean waves, and the quiet, almost intimate mood of still life scenes.

In addition to painting, I also work with wood and create original handmade leather items. These crafts let me express creativity through material, adding artistic value to functional objects. In 2018, I founded a small workshop called Kieli Qol, where I combine traditional Kazakh decorative art with modern design.

I find inspiration in Kazakh epics and the natural beauty of the Tien Shan mountains. From time to time, I take my easel and head into the mountains for a few days to create plein air sketches.

I’m also passionate about calligraphy...