Exhibition: “BALAGAN!!! Contemporary Art from the former Soviet Union and other Mythical places.”

The Kuhlhaus in Berlin is currently hosting the exhibition “BALAGAN!!! Contemporary art from the former Soviet Union and other mythical places”. The exhibition presents the work of 74 artists from 14 countries of the former Soviet Union. An installation of the Uzbek artist Vecheslav Akhunov “Walk of Fame” occupies a central place in the exhibition.

Gulnara Karimova, Bashar Assad, Donald Trump, Dariga Nazarbayeva, Vladimir Putin and other recognizable heroes of our time received decent places on the Walk of Fame of Vecheslav Akhunov. Unlike on the Hollywood alley, the people honoured by Akhunov gave nothing positive to the world, but instead made a significant contribution to the development of corruption, violence, irresponsibility and populism.

The Uzbek artist whose works the country should be proud of, could not attend the opening of the exhibition in Berlin. Several years ago, he was already refused an exit visa. The reason for the travel ban is the active engagement of Vecheslav Akhunov who is not afraid to criticize the Uzbek government. In doing so, he differs from the grey mass of Uzbek artists who rather prefer to ignore what is happening around them.

The exhibition “Balagan” presents current works of artists who have a feeling about their country and the time in which they live. Although Vecheslav Akhunov was denied the right to travel, his works have been exhibited all over the world, reminding the audience of the shameful behaviour of the Uzbek authorities who rather punish the artist instead of honouring him.

Umida Niazova, Berlin

11/30/2015