ArtBatFest-2014 to take place in Almaty
ArtBatFest is an open-air showcase for contemporary art. Centered on the pedestrianized Arbat section of Zhibek Zholy, from which it takes its name, the festival is an interactive experience that encompasses live improvised performances, flash mobs, experimental theatre and dance and displays of photography, painting and drawing; with an arresting array of video art pieces and installations lining the Arbat for the duration of the festival. In the past, ArtBatFest has usually kicked off in May and run for approximately four weeks. "Initially, the festival was conceived as a way of development of Arbat pedestrian area in Almaty. But later it became clear that the event should and can grow to an international level and become the biggest in the field of contemporary art, not only in Almaty and Kazakhstan, but in Central Asia. We started to invite curators and artists from the United States, Europe, Asia and the CIS, and, of course, we continue to work with the Kazakh artists", said the head of the Public Association "Eurasian cultural alliance" Igor Sludskii. According to him, the main purpose the event is to create a communication platform for cultural exchange between the representatives of international and Kazakhstan creative communities. In addition in the framework of ArtBatFest street art project will be realized by English street artist Sickboy, known for his signature "Save the Youth", who will decorate one of the houses in Samal district. In parallel with the main program three exhibitions will be carried out. August 29 dance performance ALMA_ATA by Italian theater ROD, musical and dance performances from the Italian Salvatore Viviano and many other exciting activities will take place on the pedestrianized Arbat section of Zhibek Zholy.
