Women of Uzbekistan who are reshaping the cultural map of the world.
Gayane Umerova is one of the key figures in Uzbekistan’s contemporary cultural policy. Thanks to her initiatives, the country has become increasingly visible on the international cultural stage — from the Venice Biennale to Milan Design Week.
Today she heads the Republican Council for the Development of the Creative Economy of Uzbekistan, which shapes the strategy for the development of creative industries and promotes investment in this sector. Gayane Umerova also serves as the Secretary-General of the National Commission of Uzbekistan for UNESCO under the Cabinet of Ministers.
Her work is aimed at strengthening Uzbekistan’s international cultural presence, developing the country’s cultural infrastructure, and creating new opportunities for the younger generation.
Photo: Uzbekistan Art and Culture Development Foundation.
International Recognition
In 2025, Gayane Umerova was awarded the French Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, one of France’s highest cultural honors. The award was presented for her contribution to strengthening cultural ties between Uzbekistan and France, as well as for promoting Uzbek art on the international stage.
Key Cultural Projects
Under Gayane Umerova’s leadership, several large-scale cultural initiatives aimed at developing the country’s cultural infrastructure are being implemented.
- the creation of the Center for Contemporary Art in Tashkent;
- the construction of the new State Museum of Arts of Uzbekistan;
- the organization of the Aral Cultural Summit, whose second edition is scheduled for autumn 2026.
Bukhara Biennale
In 2025, the first Bukhara Biennale of Contemporary Art took place and attracted more than one million visitors. The project became one of the largest cultural events in the region and an important platform for international cultural dialogue.
Development of the Creative Economy
In 2026, Gayane Umerova was appointed head of the Republican Council for the Development of the Creative Economy of Uzbekistan. The Council is responsible for shaping the national strategy for creative industries, supporting the export of cultural content, and attracting investment to this sector.
Source: Press Service of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan
Cooperation with UNESCO
Gayane Umerova played a key role in UNESCO’s landmark decision to hold the 43rd session of the UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand from October 30 to November 13, 2025.
Investing in the Cultural Future
Gayane Umerova emphasizes the importance of long-term investments in cultural infrastructure and the development of young talent: “We want to create a new cultural heritage of Uzbekistan.”
Source: Press Service of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan / Uzbekistan Art and Culture Development Foundation
