Almaty is home to a thriving cultural scene, where unique art spaces bring together artists, creatives, and the public. From the historic House on Baribaeva to the innovative Tselinny Center, these venues host a variety of events, exhibitions, and workshops that showcase the best of contemporary art in Kazakhstan. Whether you're an art lover or just curious, these spots are perfect for experiencing Almaty's creative vibe.
1. House on Baribaeva 36, @dom36kz
Location: 36 Baribaeva St.
This creative cultural space in Almaty has a rich history, being housed in a building that was once the Uzbek embassy and, before that, an Olympic reserve school. Now, it is a dynamic venue for exhibitions, concerts, lectures, and workshops. The space also offers studio rentals, offices, and venues for events like master classes, film screenings, and immersive performances such as the Utopia project. It features a co-working area, a music studio, and regularly hosts creative events, including dance performances and art festivals. Artists have decorated the building’s facade with mosaics and frescoes reflecting current social themes and modern Almaty art.
2. Corner, @ugol.art
Location: 555A Seifullina St.
Corner is a contemporary cultural space focused on supporting and promoting local artists and creative projects. The venue features a gallery that hosts various exhibitions, from visual arts and photography to multimedia installations. Corner also provides a platform for performances, lectures, and workshops, often collaborating with local and international artists to create unique cultural experiences. The space is known for its experimental and avant-garde approach to art, making it a vibrant hub for innovation and creativity.
3. Efes Art Space @efesartspace
Location: 137 Zheltoksan St.
Efes Art Space serves as a meeting point for artists, critics, and art enthusiasts. It regularly organizes art exhibitions, poetry readings, film screenings, and panel discussions, providing a diverse cultural program that caters to different interests. The space is particularly recognized for its inclusivity, offering young and emerging artists opportunities to showcase their work alongside more established names. Efes Art Space has also been a venue for cultural festivals and collaborative projects with international artists.
4. Imagine Studios @imaginestudioskz
Location: 62 Abylai Khan Ave.
Imagine Studios is not only a studio provider but also a catalyst for artistic collaboration and idea exchange. This space offers modern facilities, including fully-equipped studios for photography, painting, and digital art. Imagine Studios frequently hosts events that encourage networking among artists, such as open studio days, collaborative workshops, and themed exhibitions. It is an ideal venue for both seasoned professionals and aspiring artists looking to develop their skills in a dynamic and supportive environment.
5. DK94 @dk94.almaty
Location: 94 Karmysova St.
DK94 is dedicated to contemporary arts and provides a versatile space for exhibitions, performances, lectures, and creative meetings. The venue also organizes educational programs and master classes in various artistic disciplines. Known for its minimalist architecture and versatile layout, DK94 offers artists a blank canvas to experiment with their work. It regularly collaborates with local art institutions and independent curators to bring fresh and diverse content to the Almaty art scene.
6. Tselinny Center for Contemporary Culture @tselinniycenter
Location: Almaty, Kazakhstan
Tselinny is one of the most significant cultural spaces in Almaty, dedicated to the development and promotion of contemporary art and cultural initiatives. It features a large exhibition hall, cinema, and multifunctional spaces for various cultural activities. The center is known for its ambitious programming, which includes international exhibitions, film screenings, concerts, and public talks. Tselinny also focuses on education and research, offering workshops, lectures, and artist residencies to foster a deeper understanding of contemporary art practices.