In the heart of Xinjiang’s ancient city of Kashi, oil painter Kurbanjan transforms the soul of his hometown onto canvas. Born and raised amid the labyrinthine alleys and bustling markets of this Silk Road gem, Kurbanjan’s work celebrates Kashi’s architectural marvels, cultural traditions, and the rhythms of daily life through vivid brushstrokes.
Collections like Kashi in Sunshine and New Looks of Kashi’s Ancient City showcase his signature use of bold, sun-drenched hues to immortalize the region’s iconic adobe buildings, lively bazaars, and Uygur craftsmanship. "Every corner here tells a story," Kurbanjan says. "Painting is my way of preserving our heritage while capturing its evolving spirit."
His works resonate beyond aesthetics, offering glimpses into Kashi’s thriving economy through scenes of merchants trading spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Academics praise his art as a visual archive of cross-cultural exchanges along historic trade routes, while diaspora communities find nostalgic connections to their roots.
For travelers, Kurbanjan’s canvases serve as an invitation to explore Kashi’s UNESCO-recognized Old City – a living testament to Xinjiang’s multicultural tapestry.
