From 11 to 18 September, students and faculty of KazGASA, together with representatives of the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), participated in an international research workshop in Zharkent. The workshop focused on the Zharkent Mosque, a unique monument of Kazakhstan’s architectural and cultural heritage included on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.
The workshop aimed to conduct a comprehensive study of the building’s architectural features, decorative design, history, and current condition. Participants were divided into international teams, with each group responsible for a specific area of research.
During the fieldwork, students and faculty carried out architectural measurements, photographed the mosque’s interior and exterior elements, and conducted a detailed assessment of its current condition. Particular attention was paid to ornaments and decorative details. Using tracing paper and clay, participants created copies to document their forms and craftsmanship.
The collected materials were transferred to AutoCAD for further digital processing and accurate reproduction of the patterns. Participants also produced sketches of architectural elements to complement the measured drawings and photographic records.
The research included interviews with the mosque’s director, faculty members, and residents of Zharkent. The information gathered supplemented the architectural study with insights into the history of the site, its cultural significance, and its role in the local community.
In parallel, the teams conducted archival and bibliographic research in libraries and district archives. Participants examined historical documents and old photographs relating to the mosque and its architectural appearance.
The international workshop combined practical methods of architectural research, digital technologies, and the study of historical sources. The joint project provided a platform for professional and cultural exchange between representatives of Kazakhstan and Malaysia, while giving students practical experience in studying and documenting architectural heritage sites.
