"Work in Progress"

Aspan Gallery presents "Work in Progress", a duo exhibition bringing together two artists — Roman Zakharov and Leonid Khan. Their artistic practices have developed through constant proximity and dialogue. The project takes the form of a simulated studio reconstructed within the gallery space: the artists’ actual studios are located side by side, separated only by a wall. This physical and mental closeness becomes a starting point for reflecting on shared artistic processes, differing creative strategies, and the coexistence of contrasting artistic languages.

Work in Progress offers an ironic yet critical reflection on life and art beyond genre and stylistic boundaries. A key element of the exhibition is the integration of real objects from the artists’ studios into the gallery space — a sofa, carpet, table, shelf, bathtub, and other items – are incorporated directly into the exhibition space. These objects are not merely scenographic elements, but artifacts charged with personal histories and narratives that resonate with the artworks themselves.

This assemblage emphasizes the everyday nature of artistic inquiry, the processual character of artistic labor, and the desacralization of the pathos of “timeless art.” The exhibition presents art as a continuous condition — unfinished, vulnerable, and open — producing an effect of “art beyond the ‘end of art,’” as interpreted by Jean Baudrillard in his reflections on Arthur Danto’s concept.

Roman Zakharov works with graphic art, mixed media, video, and sound. In his projects, he combines illustrative forms, graffiti, and murals with objects and installations, exploring questions of identity, the cultural and historical heritage of Central Asia.

Leonid Khan uses various media in his practice, including graphic sketch-diaries, graffiti and wall paintings, collage, animation, and video. His work is focused on understanding contemporary culture in all its diversity.

Curated by Yulia Sorokina

Exhibition dates: 19 December 2025 - 1 February 2026

Friday December 19 | 7 pm - 9 pm - Exhibition Opening, Aspan Gallery

Opening hours:

Tue-Sat: 11 am - 7 pm

Sun: 12 pm - 6 pm

Adress: Villa Boutiques & Restaurants, 140 A/3 Al Farabi, lower ground floor, Almaty. Free entrance.