Hoshgheldi Shakhberdiyev: An Artist and an Extraordinary Personality

A solo exhibition of paintings and graphic works by artist Hoshgheldi Shakhberdiyev is currently on display at the State Museum of Fine Arts of Turkmenistan. Many artists who knew him personally considered him one of the finest artists. One of his graphic works was acquired by the Tretyakov Gallery.

Hoshgheldi came from a family rich in talent. His cousin, singer Medeniyet Shakhberdiyeva, became known for performing Alexander Alyabyev's romance «The Nightingale» as an unrivalled performer. His father, Hally Shakhberdiyev, was one of the founders of Turkmen literature and theatrical art. After three years of studying in Moscow, he was forced to leave his studies because of heart problems.

Colleagues and relatives recall his talent and warmth. Painter Myojek Charyyev, a classmate at the Turkmen State Art School, said Hoshgheldi was accepted to VGIK straight away. Relatives later donated nearly 2,500 of his works to the State Museum of Fine Arts. After his death, actor Vladimir Konkin visited his grave.