Since the end of Tajikistan's civil war in the 1990s there's been little opportunity for Tajik artists to engage with modern art forms. Now for the first time Tajik students and established local artists, have held a contemporary art exhibition in the capital Dushanbe.

Celebrated European artworks get a fresh take from established Tajik art students and artists.

Public response to the exhibition at the Mayakovski Theater has been positive.

Student Zuhra Sharipova says she'd like to see more.

Zuhra Sharipova, art student, said, "I would like to increase the number of Tajik contemporary artists and students, of course to take part in these projects. It's very important for them."

Established local artist Suleiman Sharifi credits the students with drawing him in.

Suleiman Sharifi, artist, said, "I came to a seminar dedicated to this exhibition where I saw so many young bright and beautiful people and their enthusiasm inspired me to do this work."

For many visitors, it's their first experience with contemporary art. The installations deal with universal emotions, love, conflict, and human relationships.

Contemporary art has not until now been covered in Tajik university courses. The Bactria Centre is launching a contemporary art school in spring.