The Transformative Impact of Uzbekistan's Young Population on Its Creative Sector's Landscape
The government has been pouring substantial resources into various ambitious artistic and architectural initiatives lately, aiming to boost Uzbek art's global visibility. The upcoming State Art Museum in Tashkent is set to be Central Asia's largest exhibition space.
Odil Mukhamedov, 26, saw a chance to bolster the field when he established Moc community in 2019. He found out that there were no local platforms for creative individuals to share their thoughts and advocate for artists.
"We began gathering every creative person we knew – artists, musicians, designers, architects," he told CNN. "The community grew, and then we started realizing that the creative potential in Uzbekistan is massive."
"It's tough to make a living in this sector when there's no industry. So, it's easier for young people to move out," he admits. "We thought about how to motivate the young generation to stay here and carry out their projects."
Uzbekistan, once a Soviet republic, gained independence in 1991. Former leader Islam Karimov maintained power for 25 years until his death in 2016.
Post-Karimov, Uzbekistan has embarked on several political and economic transformations. These include diminishing trade barriers, making it simpler for businesses to operate, and delving into the foreign exchange market. This creative sector promotion is seen as an extension of these goals.
The Moc collective organizes diverse arts festivals across Uzbekistan, such as an electronic music festival in the Aral Sea desert and Mocfest, a ‘festival of festivals,’ in the capital. Mocfest 2021 runs from August 23 to 25, showcasing work by young artists, musicians, chefs, and environmental activists.
"The country's economy is growing," Mukhamedov explained. "This is a great time for young creatives to make their voices heard."
With nearly half of Uzbekistan's population under 25, young Uzbeks have successfully used social media to reach international audiences with their content.
Former gymnast and social media sensation Asal Saparbaeva, famously known as Littos, has racked up numerous millions of views on TikTok and nearly 15 million followers across her social media channels worldwide, with her daring mix of extreme sports and traditional Uzbek style.
Saparbaeva and her husband, Yaroslav Nikolenko, built their social media company during the pandemic, posting 5-6 videos each day on all available social media platforms. They discovered that publishing language-free videos exposed their content to a larger international audience.
Saparbaeva performs an impressive range of acrobatics and stunts, often in character as a “kelinka” or traditional Uzbek bride. She encourages women in Central Asia to engage in sports and pursue their passions even after marriage.
She believes that social media offers opportunities for individual expression. "Schools require something, but on the internet, you can learn or create something for yourself," she says. "I think that's why young people find it fascinating."
“Still in the early stages”
In Tashkent, Human House Gallery has been a sanctuary for local artists for over 20 years. Lola Saifi, the founder and director, remarks that the country has undergone significant changes in the past five years.
"It's easier to do business in Uzbekistan now. Many sectors see growth and less bureaucracy – which is crucial. As for the creative sector, unfortunately, I believe we're still in the early stages, and the state doesn't yet appreciate the distinction between creative and non-creative industries."
Local artists state that despite government backing for landmark projects, grassroots financial support is scarce, despite the creative sector being a powerful economic contributor.
"It's the same for all businesses. It can pay taxes and provide opportunities to people in remote areas of Uzbekistan," she said.
There are indications that the creative sector is gaining mainstream recognition. This year, Uzbekistan will host the Fourth World Conference on Creative Economy in October, aiming to revive the creative sectors negatively impacted by the pandemic.
All these developments come at a time of significant change for the country, which began with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's ascent to power in 2016 following Karimov's demise. Since then, Uzbekistan has welcomed foreign investment and tourism like never before, during the previous regime's or Soviet era.
Freedom of expression remains a major concern for many, but Mukhamedov is hopeful for the future of young creatives.
"It will take some time, but we already see many things changing, and this change will continue to be a vital factor in the country's overall development," he says. "We truly believe that the creative economy and creators can lift the country to a higher economic level."
The lack of a thriving business environment in the creative sector is a challenge faced by young entrepreneurs like Odil Mukhamedov. He notes, "So, it's easier for young people to move out because it's tough to make a living in this sector when there's no industry."
In an effort to address this issue, Moc community organizes events and festivals to showcase local talent and attract international attention, as Mukhamedov believes, "This is a great time for young creatives to make their voices heard."
