As part of the event, descendants of labor veterans who previously collected raw opium were invited. They shared their memories of their hard working days, when in the evening they had to make incisions on the poppy pods, and early in the morning, starting from three or four o'clock, collect the raw opium until sunrise. After completing their daily work quota, they returned to their workplaces.
The exhibition showcased works by artists from various countries, including France, Germany, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. The elements of the exhibition surprised with their creative approach: visitors were able to see textile installations, collages, audiovisual works, and performances created by participants of the art residency.
The museum's stand from the village of Yrdyk attracted special interest, as it featured ancient tools used for collecting raw opium. The organizers and artists visited the museum in Yrdyk before the exhibition, which became the basis for creating a series of artistic photographs reflecting the history and life of the community in this village.
One of the novelties of the exhibition was installations, for the first time arranged in the basement of the museum. Here, exhibitions dedicated to women who worked in opium fields were presented, illuminated by soft light in the dimness.
Gulnaz Orozova, the director of the Karakol Local History Museum, noted that the exhibition not only introduces viewers to artistic interpretations of the past but also prompts reflection on the fates of women who labored in the opium fields. Visitors had the opportunity to interact with the artists and discuss how personal and collective memories are reflected in art.
“We are happy to see all residents and guests of Karakol at the exhibition, where art helps preserve the memory of generations,” she added.
The opening gathered foreign diplomats, local administration representatives, and notable figures such as artist, writer, and art historian Altyn Kapalova.
