Bukhara Biennial Unites Global Artists in Uzbekistan

In the historic city of Bukhara, Uzbekistan, the inaugural Bukhara Biennial, titled "Recipes for Broken Hearts," is underway, running from September 5 to November 20, 2025. This contemporary art event brings together over 200 artists from 39 countries, showcasing more than 70 site-specific installations across the city's restored historic landmarks.

Curated by Diana Campbell and commissioned by Gayane Umerova, Chairperson of the Uzbekistan Art and Culture Development Foundation (ACDF), the biennial draws inspiration from a local legend involving the physician Ibn Sina (Avicenna). According to the tale, Ibn Sina created the recipe for palov, a staple Uzbek dish, to cure a prince's lovesickness. This narrative underscores the healing power of art and communal participation, central to the biennial's mission.

Artworks are displayed across newly restored historic landmarks, including madrasas, caravanserais, and mosques, integrating contemporary art with Bukhara's rich cultural heritage. The event aims to foster cross-cultural exchange and highlight traditional Uzbek crafts by pairing international artists with local artisans.

Notable international artists participating include Antony Gormley, Laila Gohar, Subodh Gupta, and Jeong Kwan. These artists collaborate with Uzbek artisans to create works that blend contemporary art with traditional crafts. For instance, Kei Imazu presents two newly commissioned installations reflecting on Uzbek bread rituals, produced in collaboration with local artisans.

The biennial also features culinary activations, such as a pop-up of Carsten Höller's Brutalisten restaurant at the 19th-century Abdurahmon Alam Madrasa. This collaboration between international and Uzbek chefs offers a 12-course menu highlighting Uzbek produce.

The Bukhara Biennial represents a significant cultural initiative in Central Asia, positioning Uzbekistan as a hub for contemporary art and cross-cultural dialogue. By integrating art with historic sites, the event revitalizes Bukhara's architectural heritage and promotes tourism. The emphasis on collaboration between international artists and local artisans highlights the value of traditional crafts in contemporary contexts, fostering cultural preservation and innovation.

Bukhara, a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts, has a rich history as an intellectual and economic center along the Silk Road. The biennial builds on this legacy by transforming the city into a vibrant hub for contemporary art, merging historical heritage with modern artistic expression.

The Bukhara Biennial stands as a testament to the power of art in bridging cultures, preserving heritage, and fostering community engagement.