The collection of magnificent works by the People’s Artist of Turkmenistan, Annadurdy Almamedov, holds a special place in the treasury of Turkmen fine art. Sixty years have passed since the beginning of his artistic and pedagogical career. The students he trained have, in turn, nurtured new talents and continue to inspire talented youth with their creativity. The followers of this remarkable painter-teacher include such notable artists as Akhatmurat Nuvvaev, Ovezmukhammet Mammetnurov, Kamil Veliakhmedov, Chary Khummedov, Kossekmurat Nurmuradov, Babageldy Khodzhagulyyev, Suray Akmuradova, Berdy Charyev, Yazgeldy Dzhumaev, Vepa Gurdov, Berdymurat Toychiev, Anna Annaev, Amanmukhammet Ataballyyev, Mukhammet Babaev, Sapa Purliev, Gylych Tatov, Tyachdjemal Gylychdurdiyeva, Nyazik Almamedova and many others who have contributed to the development of Turkmen painting.
A deep look into Almamedov’s artistic system that studies and analyzes the stages of development and formation of his distinctive artistic style reveals how much time he devoted to arduous searches – both in terms of painting technique and his own spiritual growth.
Even after reaching extraordinary artistic heights, he never forgot those who guided his first steps in painting – his teacher at the Ashgabat Art School, Petr Yershov, and the professors of the Tashkent Theater and Art Institute named after A. Ostrovsky, Rakhim Akhmedov, Isaak Valdenberg and Vladimir Riftin.
After successfully graduating from the institute in 1965, Annadurdy Almamedov began working passionately as a theatre artist, bringing a fresh, vivid and deeply meaningful visual language to Turkmen stage art.
Speaking of Almamedov as painter, his works are primarily associated with mountain landscapes. His works are timeless, distinguished by the originality of their artistic style. The mountain paintings by Annadurdy Almamedov form a distinct chapter in the history of Turkmen fine art. The theme of mountains occupies a special symbolic place in his creative world – mountains embody the boundless power of nature.
A mountain is grandeur and might, a refuge and guardian of human destinies. It is a symbol of friendship, a powerful protector and patron. In his work He Imagines Himself a Mountain, great Turkmen poet Magtymguly Pyragy writes: “Mountains are like the wedge of the earth.” But what does “wedge” mean in this case? Here the word “wedge” means “support, the backbone of the earth.” When it comes to art, imagination paints beautiful landscapes. Art is not mere replication of reality but its deep creative reinterpretation.
Since the 1970s, Annadurdy Almamedov turned to the theme of mountains, managing to express in his works his unique aesthetic vision – the power of beauty that captivated him. It does not matter for the artist whether he paints from life or from memory in the studio. He sees a holistic picture of nature, existing according to laws that do not allow randomness or inconsistency. As the artist says, “I do not simply paint landscapes, I create landscape works. Countless studies and sketches from nature serve only as a foundation.”
If one views these landscape works from a psychological perspective, these canvases sharpen cognitive perception, compelling the viewer to search for the author’s hidden intent. In one of his mountain landscapes, Annadurdy Almamedov depicted the great historical destiny of the people. On the top of a hill stands a sprawling plane tree, symbolizing the heroism and unbending resilience of the ancestors. Its mighty trunk sharply contrasts with the serene mountain slopes, casting a bluish shadow upon the tree. Such a composition evokes complex emotions, drawing the viewer into the depths of memory. Almamedov’s landscapes convey the spirit of the people and the feeling of homeland.
Looking at the masterpieces such as “Native Village” (2014), “Gerkes Village” (2015), “Ancient Mountains” (2015), “Gerkes Gorge” (2020), one clearly understands that mountain landscapes are the pinnacle of Annadurdy Almamedov’s artistic expression. They are a visible symphony of the spiritual strength of the Turkmen people.
What does it mean to be a master? It is a person of art who has reached the peak of creativity, whose artistic energy is as boundless as the ocean. Their works captivate and inspire viewers. Many aspire to reach similar heights. They have numerous imitators and students. They possess a unique mindset and remarkable character qualities. They radiate energy. Even a brief, casual conversation with such people seems enriching.
Annadurdy Almamedov is one such master. When asked how he is doing, he replies with a gentle Turkmen expression: “Gul yaly!” Literally translated from Turkmen into Russian – “Like a flower!”, equivalent to “Wonderful!” A standard response to which people usually do not attach much significance. But does Annadurdy Almamedov invest only a simplified, everyday meaning into his usual greeting? For many, flowers are associated with tenderness and fragrance. They brighten our existence. People give flowers to express love, respect, admiration, etc. Flowers accompany the most important moments of our lives. And it is appropriate to recall that flowers appear no less frequently than the “mountain” theme in Almamedov’s art.
At first glance, these are two extremes – mountains symbolize grandeur and power, while flowers symbolize tenderness and grace. Almamedov’s personality combines these same qualities. Outwardly he is reserved and serious, but when you begin speaking with him, you realize he is a sensitive interlocutor, an exceptionally responsive person. He fills you with his positive energy, winning you over with his kind and open heart. And this manifests in his art. The mountains he paints are graceful and magnificent, just like the flowers. The artist is capable of immersing the viewer in his works with the richness of colors, captivating them with fresh mountain air and the aromas of wildflowers.
When Annadurdy goes to paint spring landscapes, blooming fields, and draw inspiration from them, he always takes his students with him. One of his former students, Kamil Veliakhmedov, is still deeply impressed by the experience the teacher shared with him during such plein-air sessions.
Even at an advanced age, the master remains faithful to his habit of working tirelessly. He reads a lot, takes a lively interest in global art trends. He is constantly searching, dissatisfied with yesterday’s achievements, urging his colleagues not to confine themselves to a narrow creative world, not to fear trying something new. He engages in debates when necessary and defends his point of view.
Dozens of articles and books have been written about the artist’s talent and his works. I have heard many wonderful reviews from his colleagues during exhibitions. One can speak endlessly about Annadurdy Almamedov’s art. His works are timeless, and it seems they are about to reveal something new, something previously unknown.
In the International Year of Peace and Trust, marking the significant 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality, an exhibition of art works by Annadurdy Almamedov and his students titled “A Life That Became Legendary” was held in the exhibition hall of the State Academy of Arts of Turkmenistan. The vernissage was visited by People’s Artists of Turkmenistan, journalists, art historians, foreign guests, teachers and students of educational art institutions and students of children’s art schools, all of whom greatly enjoyed the exhibition.
Annadurdy Almamedov is a luminary of Turkmen fine art. The national school of landscape painting is unimaginable without him. He entered the history of Turkmen fine art as an outstanding artist and teacher. Today he is known not only as a master of theatrical and easel painting and an exceptional educator, but also as a mentor of mentors. Almamedov’s works – and indeed his entire life – are a creative expression of love for his homeland and its people.