Opening of the exhibition and presentation of the book “Forty keys” at the National Museum

On April 4, 2026, the State Institution “National Museum” of the Executive Office of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan hosted the opening ceremony of an art exhibition and a cultural-academic event dedicated to the presentation of the book entitled “Forty Keys.” The event was timed to coincide with the 35th anniversary of the State Independence of the Republic of Tajikistan and the 50th anniversary of the pedagogical career of the distinguished art figure of Tajikistan, Anvarsho Sayfudinov. It was attended by a wide range of representatives of the academic and cultural community, art historians, university faculty members, and admirers of visual art.

In the official opening segment, the Director of the National Museum, Ibrohimzoda Zafarsho Safo, delivered a welcoming speech, emphasizing the importance of such cultural initiatives in promoting national values and advancing contemporary Tajik visual art. It was noted that the exhibition “Forty Keys” represents a significant phenomenon in the cultural life of the country and reflects the rich creative and pedagogical experience of Anvarsho Sayfudinov.

Subsequently, the Chairperson of the Union of Artists of Tajikistan, Nargis Khamidova, delivered remarks highlighting the artist’s substantial contribution to the formation and development of the national school of painting. According to her, Sayfudinov’s work is distinguished by unique artistic features, creative exploration, and a profound connection with national traditions, serving as a model for the younger generation.

The exhibition features 172 unique works, the result of many years of dedicated effort by the master and his students. The core of the exhibition consists of works by Anvarsho Sayfudinov executed in the style of abstractionism. These pieces are characterized by a distinctive artistic manner, masterful use of color, and philosophical depth, guiding viewers toward an understanding of symbolic meanings and the inner world of art.

The exhibition also presents works by the artist’s students—Munojot Boymatova, Davlat Abduazizov, and Muhammadjon Hikmatzoda. Their творчество (creative output) spans various genres of visual and decorative-applied arts, including tapestry, kundal, and painting, reflecting a successful continuation of the traditions of their teacher’s artistic school.

The exhibition “Forty Keys” represents not only the outcome of half a century of the artist’s pedagogical activity but also an embodiment of the processes of transformation and development of contemporary Tajik art during the period of independence. The primary objective of the event is to present the creative school of Anvarsho Sayfudinov and to demonstrate the close interconnection between national traditions and contemporary artistic trends.

Within the framework of the event, a cultural-academic session dedicated to the presentation of Anvarsho Sayfudinov’s new book, “Forty Keys,” was also held.

The Director of the National Museum, Ibrohimzoda Zafarsho Safo, emphasized the significance of publishing the book “Forty Keys” for the development of national art and the strengthening of the country’s cultural heritage. It was underlined that Sayfudinov’s творчество occupies a special place in the representation of contemporary Tajik visual art.

In the continuation of the event, scholarly and analytical presentations were delivered by Doctor of Art History, Professor Asliddin Nizomi; art historian Larisa Dodkhudoeva; People’s Poet of Tajikistan Gulrukhsor Safieva; People’s Artist of Tajikistan Sabzali Murodzoda Sharif; Chairman of the Union of Craftsmen of Tajikistan Mufarrah Muhabbatov; and Rector of the State Institute of Fine Arts and Design of Tajikistan Jurakhonzoda Sirojiddin. In their speeches, they provided a comprehensive assessment of the creative and pedagogical activity of Anvarsho Sayfudinov.

It was noted that the book “Forty Keys” constitutes not only a collection of artistic works but also an important spiritual and methodological guide for the younger generation of artists and researchers in the field of art. In this work, the author systematizes his many years of experience in creative practice and teaching, offering readers symbolic “keys” to understanding visual art.

At the conclusion of the event, Anvarsho Sayfudinov presented participants with copies of the book “Forty Keys” as commemorative gifts, contributing to the enhancement of cultural engagement and appreciation of national art.