Dr. Otabek Aripdjanov has 18 years of experience in archaeological excavations across Southern Uzbekistan, and specializes in researching worked bones, antlers, and ivories from ancient civilizations. His expertise lies in studying styles, motifs, techniques, and typologies of these objects. Notable contributions of his include developing typological classifications for Central Asian dice and bone/ivory combs and hairpins from Bactria in his PhD thesis.

Since 2006, Otabek has been an active member of the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan, participating in successful projects and international exhibitions. He has adopted best practices from scientific institutes in Japan, Germany, and Korea, implementing them in museum operations. More of his notable collaborations include the Japan Foundation's project on cultural heritage protection and co-organizing workshops with The Oriental Institute of the University of Chicago. Under his coordination, an international archaeological expedition with the University Museum, the University of Tokyo, has been conducting research on a Stone Age site in Uzbekistan since 2013. Otabek's career is dedicated to advancing archaeological knowledge, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering international collaborations.

IVLP Impact Award Project: The Protection and Preservation of Archaeological Collections

The "Protection and Preservation of Archaeological Collections" project enhanced the capacity of local museums and cultural institutions to safeguard archaeological artifacts through a multifaceted approach, including surveys, lectures, and workshops. The lectures about the conservation and restoration of archaeological objects delivered to museum staff and undergraduate students from the National Institute of Fine Arts and Design attracted 27 participants. The field visit allowed 17 students to explore archaeological monuments in Tashkent, which provided practical exposure to complement theoretical knowledge gained from lectures. The culminating workshop, held in the Academy of Mamun in Khiva, attracted 22 participants and provided a platform for discussions on the conservation of archaeological artifacts in museums and monuments. At this workshop, Dr. Aripdjanov also invited Alison Whyte, a conservator whom he met in Chicago while on his IVLP exchange, to deliver a lecture on the excavation, preservation, and display of objects. Overall, this project increased awareness about preserving archaeological artifacts for future generations and successfully fostered a sense of community among professionals in archaeology and museum management.

"I've never been part of such an international project in Khorezm. It's eye-opening and has broadened my understanding of archaeological conservation." - Workshop participant

IVLP Exchange Experience 

Otabek was a participant in the IVLP Project Collaboration on Cultural Heritage Preservation, organized by the U.S. Department of State and Meridian International Center.

U.S. Communities Visited

Washington, DC; Chicago, IL; New York City; NY

"The IVLP experience has provided invaluable insights and opened doors for potential collaborations in the preservation of our cultural heritage." - Otabek Aripdjanov

Country: Uzbekistan

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