On 7 April 2026, in the city of Manas, a cultural festival titled “ARTүрдүүлүк: New Momentum for Manas” was held as part of the field visit of participants of the creative laboratory “ARTүрdүүлүк” across the Osh and Jalal-Abad regions. The event was organized by the Osh Museum of Fine Arts.

Over four days, participants of the “ARTүрdүүлүк” creative laboratory undertook an expedition along the Osh – Uzgen – Arslanbob – Manas route, aimed at exploring and artistically interpreting the region’s natural and cultural heritage, as well as its tourism potential. The project is implemented with the financial support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and contributes to the development of the creative economy and sustainable tourism through artistic initiatives and modern technologies. Special attention is given to preserving cultural heritage, expanding economic opportunities for local communities, and strengthening social cohesion.

The festival served as the final event of the field visit and was held at the renovated premises of the Republican Art School named after Academician Turgunbai Sadykov. The programme featured an exhibition of plein air works created by invited artists, including digital artists, as well as local masters, alongside a fair showcasing handicrafts.

During the official opening, representatives of the Mayor’s Office of Manas city, the Republican Art School, and participating artists delivered welcoming remarks. It was highlighted that the “ARTүрдүүлүк” project contributes to unlocking the creative potential of young people, supporting local artists, and strengthening cultural ties between regions, while fostering spaces for dialogue and mutual understanding.

The festival also featured a concert programme with performances by students of the Manas City Children’s Creativity Center. Interactive activities and competitions were organized for children and guests, aimed at strengthening a sense of belonging and appreciation for their local heritage.

Throughout the expedition, artists actively engaged with local communities, conducted workshops for art school students in Uzgen and Manas, and organized joint plein air sessions with young artists. Such formats support knowledge exchange, skills development, and the creation of sustainable horizontal linkages between regions.

UNDP supports the efforts of the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic to promote a shared and inclusive civic identity under the “Kyrgyz Zharany” Concept for 2021–2026. In this context, particular importance is given to fostering dialogue between communities, building trust, and reducing conflict risks through inclusive cultural initiatives. Such art platforms serve as tools for bringing people together, where art helps shape a shared vision of the future based on diversity, mutual respect, and cooperation.

The project is implemented with the financial support of the Russian Federation.