The sculptor A. Mukhtudinov primarily established himself as a portrait artist. Easily capturing the likeness of his subjects, he was somewhat constrained by academic training in his early works. Pieces such as "People's Artist of the USSR M. Ryskulov" (1964, plastic) and "Portrait of Geologist Adyshev" (1967, wood) are executed with professional skill, but rather dryly, without revealing the artist's personal relationship to the portrayed. However, in some portraits from the 1960s, Mukhtudinov successfully overcomes naturalistic tendencies, achieving an emotional resonance in the image. For example, "Aigul" (1967, chamotte) is sculpted softly and lyrically, which, as noted in publications, is "full of unique national poetry."
In the portraits from his more mature creative period, Mukhtudinov sharpens his vision of humanity, focusing on essential traits and states, and more clearly reveals his understanding of the sculptural form. His plastic style is characterized by a desire for calm, balanced composition, volumetric fullness, and work in various materials. He succeeded in creating portraits of the working Kyrgyz youth and students. In these heroes, the sculptor sees the intertwining of traditional traits of the national character, such as directness and a tendency toward poetic contemplation, with a new worldview, determination, and involvement in the public life of our time. The portrait "Dairy Worker Aisha" (1975, copper) is appealing due to its distinctive typage and the life force of a young worker. Here, the resilient, cohesive volume conveys not only the striking character of the cheekboned face but also the kindness, emotional responsiveness, and cheerful nature of a simple Kyrgyz girl. Observational quality, plasticity, and accuracy of characteristics are inherent in the works "Asel" (1972, majolica), "Portrait of Nurse Aydai" (1973, chamotte), and "Portrait of a Young Shepherd" (1979, wood). In the sharply characterized portrait "Cameraman Borbiyev Nurtai" (1977, copper) and the psychologically rich "Portrait of Academician Jamgyrchinov B." (1984, wood), the sculptor aims to penetrate the complex spiritual world of the creative and scientific intelligentsia of contemporary Kyrgyzstan, demonstrating the individuality of artistic perception and mastery.
