InfoHub Logo

An exhibition in Almaty is showcasing unique Kazakhstani dolls, with some pieces valued at hundreds of thousands of tenge, attracting significant public attention. These creations are being recognized not just as crafts, but as genuine works of art.

A Showcase of Unique Creations

The Central State Museum in Almaty has opened an exhibition titled "From East to West," featuring the works of Kazakhstani artisans. Among the highlights are one-of-a-kind dolls, each potentially worth hundreds of thousands of tenge and deemed worthy of inclusion in global collections. The publication Kursiv LifeStyle spoke with the creators to understand who is acquiring these valuable pieces.

The exhibition displays 140 works from 21 artisans hailing from various regions of Kazakhstan. Organizers emphasize that each doll is a singular creation; even if a doll proves popular, the artisans do not produce replicas. Tatyana Fisenko, one of the exhibition's organizers, has been involved in this art form for nine years.

Doll Value and Craftsmanship

According to Fisenko, the prices for the works on display range from 10,000 tenge to 500,000 tenge. Authors set these prices based on the doll's size and the labor invested. Crafting a single doll requires at least a week, with more intricate pieces demanding several months of work.

"We create everything here for ourselves. We make them because we want to. If they sell, that's great; if not, it doesn't matter," Fisenko shared. "Last year, we sold around 40 dolls. Sometimes, when I invite friends to the exhibition, they reply, 'We don't have any dolls left; they've all been sold.'"

Growing Popularity of Handmade Dolls

For many of the participating artisans, doll-making began as a hobby alongside their primary professions. Many continue to balance this craft with their careers. The finished dolls are purchased by private collectors and galleries in other countries.

The artisans note that dolls dressed in national attire are particularly in demand. These are often chosen as gifts for foreign guests or relatives due to their cultural resonance.

Artisans' Distinctive Works

Irina Samonova's creations stand out for their unique character. A professional artist-decorator, she has dedicated about 20 years to doll making. Her works are frequently acquired by collectors.

"Some of my larger pieces are quite significant. For example, this 'negro girl' doll is not currently for sale, but its estimated price is around 200,000 tenge. And this large doll in a red dress is priced at 350,000 tenge," Samonova explained.

The artist mentioned that the inspiration for her dolls doesn't come from specific individuals. Instead, their forms are assembled from various details and impressions. "I browse the internet, look at pictures, and pay attention to colors, shades, and the play of beads. I see movement in one place, a shape in another. It's not just one specific image, but a composite image that forms in my mind," the artisan shared.

The exhibition will continue until March 18, 2026, at the address Samal-1, 44. To protect the exhibits, glass cases or barriers are not being used, allowing visitors to view the dolls up close. Museum staff and the artists themselves are overseeing the preservation of the collectible dolls.

This is reported by the Infohub.kz information agency.