Kazakhstani photographer Ivan Ryaskov has once again drawn global attention to the culture of Kyrgyzstan. His shot, depicting a man wearing traditional clothes while standing on horseback, was recognized by PhotoVogue, Vogue’s global photography platform.
The work received international recognition, being marked as a «pic of the day» on the project’s Instagram account.
The photo itself is truly an anthem to nomadic aesthetics, radiating calm strength — a young man stands on horseback on one foot, as if levitating, surrounded by snow-white yurts and soft light.
Ryaskov’s works have been featured in exhibitions in London and Milan. Berlin, Paris and Tokyo are also expected to host them.
On July 12, a new exhibition will take place in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, bearing a bizarre name which can be translated as «Mother, I am proving my professional aptitude!» Ryaskov told Kursiv.media that, unlike in his homeland, the Kyrgyz audience values his art more.
«The audience in Kyrgyzstan values what I do for its people, for promoting the country’s culture. In my homeland, Karaganda, I held two exhibitions and a screening; three exhibitions in Almaty — but nobody cared,» he said.
Ryaskov is currently also helping organize a craftsman festival in Kyrgyzstan, while continuing to do what he loves the most — taking photos.
