Ring (2006)

The Ring is an integrated visual project that explores the social identity of the residents in the suburbs of Bishkek, known as the “circle of self-builders.” This project focuses on a new generation of people who left their rural villages a decade ago in search of better opportunities but found themselves struggling with unemployment, poverty, and a lack of prospects. They now find themselves caught in a liminal space, stuck between the undeveloped rural areas they left behind and the city infrastructure they sought to reach. These "self-builders," who have gradually constructed their homes with little to no government support, symbolize the resilience and struggles of those in transition from rural to urban living.

The exhibition offered a platform for artists to interpret the complex dynamics of life in these self-built neighborhoods. Through their work, they reflected on themes such as social identity, cultural heritage, migration, and the search for belonging. By highlighting the daily struggles, aspirations, and creativity of these individuals, the project sought to shed light on the realities of life on the suburban fringes of Bishkek. It also explored the broader implications of urbanization and the marginalization of certain communities, engaging with both local and global issues such as urban development, social inequality, and cultural change. The project allowed for a deeper examination of diverse perspectives on the intersection of society, infrastructure, and individual identity, fostering a richer understanding of how these dynamics shape the lives of marginalized groups.