Kyiv Celebrates Turkmen Horse Day with a Grand Creative Event
The Magtymguly Library in Kyiv became a focal point for young artists, diplomats, and culture enthusiasts. The Embassy of Turkmenistan in Ukraine organized an interactive celebration there titled "The Akhal-Teke Horse: Beauty, Strength, and Nobility in Art," bringing together the creative youth of the capital's Sviatoshyn District.
From the very first moments, the festive atmosphere was imbued with national flair: live performances on the dutar and ghijak provided a musical backdrop for an exhibition of books by National Leader of the Turkmen people Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. Of particular interest were the publications dedicated to these legendary horses—presented in Ukrainian—which helped guests gain a deeper understanding of why the Akhal-Teke is the nation's "pride and glory."
Of particular interest was an exhibition of artworks dedicated to Akhal-Teke horses, created by young artists in attendance specifically for the celebration. The young people presented their vision of the beauty, grace, and nobility of this legendary breed.
Addressing the guests, Turkmen diplomats highlighted the international significance of the holiday. A major milestone was reached in 2023 with the inclusion of the art of Akhal-Teke horse breeding and the traditions of horse decoration in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This recognition affirms that the Turkmen horse is a treasure belonging to the entire world.
The celebration transformed into a vibrant, interactive venue. Children tested their knowledge in the quiz "Secrets of the Akhal-Teke Steeds," while young artist Polina Kosinova led a master class for her peers, revealing the secrets of how to capture the grace and soaring flight of the "heavenly horse" on paper.
Library Director Yulia Lopata emphasized that such gatherings instill in the younger generation a respect for global heritage. The winners of the art contest received commemorative gifts, yet the most significant outcome was the dialogue of cultures itself—vibrant, sincere, and constructive.
