As part of the 2026 London Design Festival, taking place from 12 to 20 September at the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in London, a comprehensive public programme dedicated to national craft and contemporary art will be presented with the support of the Uzbekistan Art and Culture Development Foundation. The foundation’s press service reported this.

One of the highlights will be a Suzani Demonstration masterclass conducted by renowned suzani embroidery master Yulduz Muhiddinova on 16 September. Visitors will have the opportunity to closely explore the technique and symbolic language of suzani, one of Uzbekistan’s unique textile traditions. This event not only showcases the craft but also serves as an important platform for promoting Uzbek cultural heritage internationally.

The programme continues on 18 September with another masterclass by Yulduz Muhiddinova and a concert featuring two live performances by Uzbek singer Laylo. These performances aim to convey not only the visual but also the musical richness of Uzbek culture to festival guests.

In addition, a new installation by London-based Uzbek artist Aziza Qodiriy, titled Sender Unknown, will be unveiled. Commissioned by the museum, the work is based on the collection of historical suzanis in the V&A and explores the connection between artificial intelligence, contemporary art, and traditional craft. This project is a vivid example of blending modern technology with traditional heritage.

For reference, the London Design Festival, held since 2003, is one of the world’s leading design festivals, bringing together designers, cultural institutions, and creative communities from the UK and other countries. It features exhibitions, performances, masterclasses, conferences, and talks. Uzbekistan’s participation in this prestigious event provides an opportunity to widely promote national culture on the international stage.

Source: www.gazeta.uz