In Rabat, at the headquarters of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO), an exhibition that speaks the language of culture rather than diplomacy drew wide international attention. Jointly organized by ISESCO and the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Morocco, the exhibition “The Childhood and Life of Al-Farabi” by renowned Kazakh artist Zhanuzak Musapir became a vivid example of how art can revive history and connect civilizations, DKNews.kz reports.
The exhibition goes beyond a traditional display of paintings. It tells a human story about one of the greatest minds of the Islamic world, presenting Al-Farabi not only as a philosopher and scholar, but as a figure whose ideas continue to shape global intellectual heritage.
A Broad International Audience
The opening brought together representatives of Morocco’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Culture, municipal authorities, the intellectual and scientific community, media, students, and members of the diplomatic corps. Such a diverse audience reflected the universal relevance of Al-Farabi’s legacy and the growing interest in cultural dialogue between Kazakhstan and the Islamic world.
Zhanuzak Musapir emphasized that the exhibition is being held as part of an initiative announced by President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev at the 5th National Kurultai, aimed at promoting and widely popularizing the spiritual and cultural heritage of Al-Farabi on the international stage.
“Through my works, I aimed to present the virtuous ideas of the great thinker, his place in human culture, and the national cultural code of Kazakhstan,” Zhanuzak Musapir said.
ISESCO: A New Chapter in Cultural Cooperation
ISESCO representatives described the exhibition as an important step in expanding cultural cooperation with Kazakhstan.
“This exhibition represents a new direction in cultural cooperation between ISESCO and Kazakhstan and demonstrates the Organization’s recognition of Al-Farabi’s enormous role in shaping human thought, as a creator known for his wisdom, extensive knowledge, and genuine interest in literature and music,” said Abdella Benarafa, Deputy Director General of ISESCO.
The artistic approach of the exhibition was also highlighted by Mohamed Zinlabidine, Director of ISESCO’s Department of Culture and former Minister of Culture of Tunisia.
“Today's exhibition highlights the legacy of the great Muslim philosopher and scholar Al-Farabi through an artistic vision that casts light on his childhood, scholarly journey, and contributions to Islamic civilization,” he noted.
“A Legacy That Belongs to All Humanity”
Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Morocco Saulekul Sailaukyzy emphasized that Al-Farabi’s heritage transcends national borders.
“Al-Farabi's legacy belongs to all humanity and is the pride of not only the Kazakh people but also the entire Islamic world,” she said.
This idea became a central message of the exhibition: Al-Farabi is a unifying figure whose intellectual and moral legacy continues to inspire across cultures and generations.
A Gesture of Respect and Continuation
As a tribute to the great thinker, Zhanuzak Musapir donated several paintings depicting Al-Farabi’s life to ISESCO. He also presented the organization’s leadership with the “Uly Tarandy Eli” medal and a Certificate of Honor from the Kazakhstan Academy of Arts.
The exhibition “The Childhood and Life of Al-Farabi” will continue from February 5 to 7 at a local art gallery in Sale, Morocco. For Kazakhstan, it is another powerful example of cultural diplomacy in action. For international audiences, it is an invitation to rediscover Al-Farabi not through textbooks, but through art that speaks directly to the human soul.
