United Nations in Uzbekistan

Reflections from James Brindley, a UN Volunteer on an exhibition held within "UN Fridays".

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There are many images that come to mind when one thinks about the mountains of Uzbekistan; crystal clear lakes, fields of snow lying under clear blue skies, cragged peaks surrounded by clouds, beautiful flora and fauna, and intense shades of orange and red at sunrise and sunset. Normally one needs to travel far out of Tashkent to witness such images of pristine beauty, but on the afternoon of the 16^th of December 2011 the United Nations Office displayed over 50 amazing photographs of Uzbekistan’s majestic peaks as part of the ‘Highest of Heights’ exhibition.

 Held by the United Nations Information Office (UNO) and the UNDP in recognition of International Mountain day, the ‘Highest of Heights’ exhibitions featured a broad collection of images taken by two of Uzbekistan’s most acclaimed photographers, Petr Stalbovskiy and Anvar Hodjaniyazov. This event was extremely memorable, as it represented a UNO first in Uzbekistan: a display of nationally-recognised works, and a presentation and press conference exploring the photographers’ lives and how the momentous pictures were taken. The event was attended by a variety of interested individuals including students, journalists and fellow photographers, who appreciated a chance to view the work of their contemporaries while reacquainting themselves with the beauty of Uzbekistan’s natural treasures.

 Established during the International Year of Mountains in 2002, International Mountain Day has been held annually in order to highlight the need to preserve these landforms. This year’s global event has addressed the social, environmental, economic and cultural importance of mountains and their forests. By highlighting the importance of mountains, particularly as a source of potable water, the UN can help to ensure that the valuable environments are protected.

 The event began when photographers, journalists and students arrived at the UN in Uzbekistan to admire the wide collection of displayed works by Mr. Stalbovskiy and Mr. Hodjaniyazov. These works quickly became a topic of discussion between the assembled enthusiasts, who discussed the topics addressed and techniques used with the photographers themselves. It was satisfying to see the visiting photographers taking pictures of the works, demonstrating their shared appreciation for the artform. The group of initial guests rapidly expanded into a growing crowd of interested participants, who soon filled up the entire exhibition space.

 After viewing the exhibition, and eager to learn more about the works on display, the visitors then entered the UN in Uzbekistan conference hall to watch a presentation of the displayed works. After the UNO Information Assistant Bobir Komilov delivered an opening speech covering the event’s background and the importance of International Mountain Day, he then offered the floor to the photographers themselves. After receiving a round of applause from the assembled audience, Mr. Stalbovskiy and Mr. Hodjaniyazov then offered the assembled audience an illuminating insight into their work.

Their presentation included both an explanation of the importance of Uzbekistan’s mountains, the stories behind their remarkable photographs, and the techniques they used to capture their unique images. After discussing their works the photographers opened the floor to questions, and the inquisitive responses made by the audience highlighted their interest in the works on display. Following the comprehensive presentation and the question and answer session, the exhibition visitors had another opportunity to view the works on display with a greater understanding of their meaning.

It is undeniable that Uzbekistan’s mountains play an important role in their nation’s cultural identity, while they also represent an important and fragile environment asset. It was therefore the goal of the ‘Highest of Heights’ exhibition to remind its visitors why these mountains must be remembered, appreciated and preserved.