He lived in Ak-Tala for over 40 years, and then, due to life circumstances, moved to the city. Today, he actively participates in various exhibitions and cultural events.
By profession, Almaz is an artist. He graduated from an educational institution within the system of the Kyrgyz National Museum of Fine Arts named after Gapar Aitiev — the Chuykov Art College. His interest in art emerged in childhood. His older sister, the renowned artist Gulipa Kozhogulova, had a significant influence on his choice of this path. Being close to her, he learned the secrets of visual art and was inspired by her creativity.
Initially, Kozhogulov worked with paints, and later mastered the technique of creating paintings using threads, finding his unique style. He is currently exploring new techniques and striving for renewal in his work.
According to him, the main requirement for an artist is to always be in search. “Creating something new is a continuous effort. You need to work day and night,” said Almaz.
The 68-year-old artist is married. He has a son and two daughters, as well as grandchildren. He has created portraits of various famous personalities: Vladimir Putin, Alla Pugacheva, and Philip Kirkorov. In particular, the portrait of Putin was valued at $5,000 and sold on the order of a restaurant owner in Moscow.
Today, the artist looks with concern at the development of modern technologies, especially artificial intelligence.
In his opinion, in the future, the place of handmade works may diminish, which could create difficulties for artists and craftsmen.
“Right now, artificial intelligence is a very frightening thing. I fear that over time, the labor of artists, done by hand, may disappear. We live in fear that handmade items may vanish. Craftsmen are also in danger. I myself fear that we might be left without work. When the Soviet Union collapsed, we made all the visual signs and advertising materials for institutions and enterprises by hand.
When computers appeared, everything changed. Previously, all signs and visual advertising were created manually. And now, technology has displaced everything. Despite this, we continue to be in search and work.”
