Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The prestigious Rizzoli bookstore in New York hosted the presentation of A Modernist Capital, a book dedicated to the unique architectural heritage of Tashkent. Published with the support of the Uzbekistan Culture and Art Development Foundation, the book explores the city's modernist aesthetic and its significance in 20th-century global architecture.

The publication is part of the large-scale Tashkent Modernism XX/XXI project, initiated by the Foundation in collaboration with international experts. The project aims to study, preserve, and promote the modernist architecture of Uzbekistan’s capital. As a result of these efforts, 21 buildings in Tashkent have been granted national heritage status, and the city's distinctive mosaic panels adorning facades and interiors are now protected.

The event featured a panel discussion on Tashkent’s architectural development. Experts highlighted key modernist landmarks such as the Panorama cinema (1964), the State Museum of Arts (1974), and the Uzbekistan Hotel (1976), emphasizing their innovative designs and cultural significance.

Notable participants included Gayane Umerova, Chair of the Uzbekistan Culture and Art Development Foundation; Abraham Thomas, curator of architecture and design at The Met; and Béatrice Grenier, Director of Strategic Projects at the Cartier Foundation. The discussion was moderated by Dan Rubinstein, host of The Grand Tourist podcast.

Tashkent: A Modernist Capital takes readers on a visual journey through 24 iconic modernist buildings in Tashkent. French photographer Karel Balas captured the stunning imagery, while renowned art historian Chris Dercon provided the book’s foreword. The publication complements the research volume Tashkent Modernism XX/XXI, published by Lars Müller Publishers, which features archival materials, interviews with architects, and analytical essays on modernist preservation.

The Tashkent Modernism XX/XXI project continues to garner international attention, positioning A Modernist Capital as a key contribution to the global conversation on modernism’s cultural legacy. Tashkent’s unique architectural landscape is increasingly attracting interest from experts and art enthusiasts worldwide.

This event not only underscores the significance of Uzbekistan’s architectural heritage but also fosters cultural dialogue on a global scale.