In the sprawling city of Astana, a creative force named Aigerim Karibayeva, known by her artistic alias Art_Aika, embarked on an extraordinary journey of decolonization and ethno-creative entrepreneurship. At the age of 35, Aigerim is a proud owner of a vibrant art showroom and digital store, where her captivating paintings, posters, phone cases, shoppers, mugs, toys, stickers, and more breathed life into the spirit of her Kazakh heritage.
Aigerim's love for drawing blossomed from her earliest memories, fueling a passion that propelled her to enroll at the esteemed Zhurgenov Kazakh National Art Academy in 2005. While studying, she eagerly undertook independent projects, honing her skills and building a remarkable portfolio that would lay the foundation for her entrepreneurial journey. Aigerim fondly acknowledged the profound influence of her mother's encouragement, which ignited her artistic flame and guided her towards early success.
After spending years as a graphic designer, Aigerim embarked on a realization—her ambitions could not be confined within the boundaries of conventional employment. Drawing upon her experiences, she made the courageous leap from full-time work to freelance projects, armed with a strong work ethic, exceptional negotiation skills, and the ability to forge direct connections with clients. These skills, acquired during her previous endeavors, laid the groundwork for her future success as an entrepreneur.
The seed of entrepreneurship began to germinate during Aigerim's second maternity leave, where she transformed her thoughts into tangible actions. She sought out a local coffee shop that warmly embraced her vision, providing a space for her to exhibit her postcards, mugs, and posters. Simultaneously, she skillfully curated her Instagram page, pinning the location of the coffee shop for those interested in witnessing and acquiring her unique creations. The thrill of her first revenue—an awe-inspiring 40,000 tenge in the first month—made her determined to follow her own path.
As Aigerim's artistic journey flourished, so did the coffee shop that showcased her work. The mutual collaboration between artist and establishment blossomed, attracting a growing clientele who marveled at Aigerim's artistry and eagerly embraced her merchandise. Over time, her presence on the coffee shop's shelves became a steadfast fixture, accompanied by a steady increase in income that she wisely reinvested into her business.
Aigerim's art transcended mere aesthetic beauty; it became a vehicle for decolonization, an unyielding expression of her Kazakh heritage and a celebration of her nomadic roots. Her unique artistic style, often described as ethno-modernism, masterfully blended contemporary elements with traditional Kazakh motifs. The vibrant colors, symbolic imagery, and rich cultural tapestry that flowed from her brushstrokes rekindled a sense of pride and belonging among her fellow Kazakhs.
With each stroke of her brush, Aigerim breathed life into the essence of Kazakh culture, reviving its distinct identity in a world often permeated by globalization and cultural assimilation. Her art resonated not only with her compatriots at home but also with the Kazakh diaspora living abroad. Her creations found homes in distant lands, adorning walls and serving as cherished apparel and accessories that boldly proclaimed their Kazakh heritage. Aigerim understood the deep-rooted need for self-expression and the power of art to bridge the gap between distance and belonging.
Even amidst the challenging times of the global COVID-19 pandemic, Aigerim's entrepreneurial spirit shone through. Driven by her commitment to support her ailing mother, she channeled her fears and uncertainties into elevating her business to new heights. The launch of her online store became a resounding success, offering solace and connection to those yearning for a tangible expression of their identity. Aigerim's art not only adorned walls but became a powerful tool for unity, reminding Kazakhs worldwide that their cultural heritage was alive, vibrant, and worthy of celebration.
Encouraged by the resounding praise and growing demand, Aigerim courageously embraced the next chapter of her artistic journey. People yearned to experience her creations in person, prompting her to establish a physical gallery in the heart of Astana. Within those sacred walls, visitors immersed themselves in the symphony of colors and symbolism, experiencing the profound beauty of Kazakh culture firsthand. Aigerim's husband, equally inspired by their shared heritage, joined her in this artistic endeavor, amplifying the sense of community and the power of their combined creative expression.
Aigerim Karibayeva transformed her passion for art into a catalyst for reclaiming Kazakh identity. With each stroke of her brush, she celebrates the nomadic heritage and cultural richness of her people. Her entrepreneurial spirit blazed a trail for fellow Kazakhs, encouraging them to embrace their roots and express their unique narratives. In Aigerim's art, the echoes of the past intertwined with the dreams of the future, forging a vibrant path towards cultural revitalization and a celebration of the Kazakh soul.
Aigerim Karibayeva
