Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 5 March, the "House of Russian Abroad" in Moscow unveiled a unique exhibition, "Enchanted by the Sun," organized by the Center for International and Cultural-Business Cooperation, "Culture for Life."

The exhibition, dedicated to the 33rd anniversary of diplomatic relations between Russia and Uzbekistan, features over 70 artworks by painters, photographers, and ceramic artists whose creative paths intertwine with both countries.

At the heart of the exhibition are works by Viktor Apukhtin—a renowned artist, illustrator, and philosopher descended from an ancient noble family. His father moved to Tashkent during World War II, where Apukhtin himself was later born.

A longtime resident of Uzbekistan, Apukhtin presented his "Baysun Motifs" (1983) series and the painting "Navruz" (2003), marking their first-ever display in Russia.

"‘Enchanted by the Sun’ tells the stories of artists united by energy, warmth, light, and the blessings of the sun. Here, traditions intertwine with modernity, creating a unique cultural dialogue," said Galina Merzlikina, the exhibition’s curator and president of the "Culture for Life" center.

The exhibition showcases a diverse range of artistic approaches. Apukhtin’s students—Elena Peshkova, Zilola Kodirova, and Jahangir Temirkhodjaev—explore philosophical themes, reinterpreting traditional symbols and ornaments to craft painterly worlds rich in metaphors and allegories.

Meanwhile, Russian plein air artists Irina Kukolkina, Tatyana Babushkina, and Irina Kovalenko capture the breathtaking landscapes of Uzbekistan, depicting azure mosque domes, ultramarine skies, rugged mountains, and sunlit scenery.

Among the standout pieces, Svetlana Chertova’s works evoke the tranquility of a sweltering day in a garden, while Tatyana Krylova’s "Jugs", created using the cold enamel technique, adds a distinctive touch. The exhibition also highlights ceramic works by Natalia Mostovaya, Tatyana Boldyreva, and Tatyana Datyuk, alongside photography by Guli Gapur (Hakimova) and Galina Merzlikina.

The "Enchanted by the Sun" exhibition will be open to visitors until 17 March.