Historic Tramway Depot in Tashkent Transformed into Contemporary Art Center
A former 1912 tramway depot and diesel station in Uzbekistan's capital has been redesigned by a Parisian architecture firm to become the country's first permanent contemporary art center.
Restored by Paris-based Studio KO, the 1912 former tramway depot and diesel station has opened as the Center for Contemporary Arts (CCA) Tashkent, Uzbekistan's first permanent contemporary art center.
Transformation of the Historic Building
A former tramway depot and diesel station building dating back to 1912 has undergone comprehensive restoration to host contemporary art activities, becoming Uzbekistan's first permanent center.
Bearing the signature of Paris-based Studio KO, the Center for Contemporary Arts Tashkent brings together exhibitions, performances, film screenings, research activities, and educational programs under one roof in the capital.
Architectural Features and Facilities
The redesigned building complex preserves its original industrial character entirely while offering visitors galleries and an extensive library.
The complex also features educational spaces, public meeting areas, a specialty concept store, and a high-quality restaurant.
International Collaborations and Goals
The center aims to build a global bridge by bringing Uzbek artists closer to the international contemporary art world.
Developing joint projects with established cultural institutions in Europe, the US, and Asia, the institution brings a contemporary dimension to the country's cultural life.
Opening Exhibition Titled Hikmah
The center's inaugural exhibition, titled Hikmah—meaning wisdom—brings together a total of 11 works by Uzbek and international artists.
Among the international works is Berlin-based Tunisian-Ukrainian artist Nadia Kaabi-Linke's piece titled Flying Carpets, brought from the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York.
Other Works Featured in the Exhibition
The comprehensive opening exhibition also presents works by Jamaican-American artist Nari Ward and Uzbek artist Shohruh Rahimov to art enthusiasts.
Additionally, the exhibition includes a 1981 work titled Untitled by Vladimir Pan from the collection of the State Art Museum of Karakalpakstan.
Protocol Participation and Opening
Mariet Westermann, director and CEO of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and Foundation, also attended the opening ceremony.
Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Head of the Presidential Administration Saida Mirziyoyeva were also present at the opening and prior inspections, drawing attention to the center's importance.
Future Plans and Events
Deputy Director of the Center Azizbek Mannopov stated that CCA was designed as a favorable platform, particularly for young artists.
The extensive opening program featured workshops, poetry readings, screenings, and traditional Shashmakom performances.