Professional artists from across Kazakhstan will have the chance to compete for a prize fund of 10.5 million tenge in a new national contest dedicated to Almaty. All applicants with a relevant education are eligible, regardless of age, nationality, or place of residence, reports infohub.kz.
The contest, titled "Ajarly Almaty!", aims to support creative individuals and promote the historical, cultural, and natural image of the southern capital through works of art. Organizers expect original works that have not been previously exhibited, entered in other contests, or published.
Works must address one of three themes: the historical and modern image of Almaty; the nature, landmarks, and architectural heritage of the city; or the culture, art, and public life of Almaty. Participants may submit works in painting (oil, acrylic, tempera, watercolor), graphics, or mixed media. The minimum size of a work is 70 × 80 cm.
Winners will receive the following prizes: first place — 3 million tenge; second place — two winners of 2 million tenge each; third place — two winners of 1 million tenge each; and five consolation prizes of 300,000 tenge each. The awards ceremony will take place in September to coincide with Almaty City Day, and the best works will be featured in a final exhibition. Applications are accepted from August 7 to September 7, 2026.