Uzbekistan: on the restriction of the artist Vyacheslav Akhunov’s right to free expression
27 February 2013
The information on your upcoming visit to Uzbekistan was brought to our attention. A prominent artist Vyacheslav Akhunov lives in that country. He is an independent free-thinking art worker expressing critical opinions with regard to political processes in Uzbekistan and the state of the modern arts.
Artist Akhunov took part in 200 exhibitions in different countries. This year he has been invited to the 55th Venetian biennale, which is starting 1 June 2013. However, in January 2013 Uzbek authorities prohibited him to leave the country upon the grounds that his business trips for creative pursuits are not appropriate. Such explanation indicates political grounds of refusal.
Lack of the opportunity to exhibit his works at the international exhibitions, restriction of the right to freedom of movement and expression are becoming serious obstacle for Akhunov.
We call upon you to urge the Government of Uzbekistan to honour rights and freedoms of artist Akhunov, who represents modern independent art of Uzbekistan abroad.
With respect,
Sergey Ignatyev, artist, coordinator, “Art and Human Rights” Project — AHRCA
Ivan Kiriakidi, artist, Greece
Inna Kiriakidi, artist, Russia
Sergey Vasilyev, artist, Russia
Igor Reznikov, artist, Israel
Valera Vanyakin, artist, USA
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