If you believe, as I do, that art shouldn't be confined to galleries, then you absolutely must take a walk along the Big Almatinka River. Here, the concrete embankments have been transformed not just into an open-air gallery but into a wonderfully dynamic and living canvas.
It is, of course, a sprawling collection of works by various artists. But for the attentive observer, there is a deeper story here. You can see the faint ghosts of older pieces beneath new, vibrant layers, telling tales of friendly competitions and the unspoken rules of the street art world.
But the experience is more than just the art. Here you can enjoy the simple pleasure of watching the river's clean stream flowing by. In summer and winter alike, the air is filled with the happy sounds of children playing along the banks. And for a final, charmingly absurd touch, you might even encounter a few chickens, clucking contentedly as they wander over from the small private houses nearby. This wonderful mix of urban art, nature, and simple neighbourhood life makes it an utterly unique Almaty experience.
Navoi str., 208/1
KZT
free
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79 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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