PRESS RELEASE 09.09.2026
Press Release
09.09.2026
From 114 Historic Qur’anic Manuscripts to the New Uzbekistan: Universal Art Group Brings
Cultural Heritage to Life in New Ways
At the International Media Forum in Uzbekistan, Universal Art Group presented projects
opening up new perspectives on the cultural heritage of Central Asia and the Islamic world.
Simbach am Inn, September 2026. How can centuries-old cultural heritage be mad
e accessible and meaningful to audiences today? This question was at the heart of the International Media
Forum “Islamic Civilization: A New Perspective – New Discoveries”, which brought together experts from
museums, publishing, the creative industries and the media in Tashkent and Samarkand from 24 to 29
August. Universal Art Group was invited to the Center of Islamic Civilization to present several collaborative
publishing projects.
114 Manuscripts Tell the Story of the Qur’an
A publishing project featuring more than 114 significant Qur’anic manuscripts from different geographical
regions and historical periods offers a unique insight into the development of the Qur’anic written and
textual tradition. The publication brings together selected pages of Al-Fatiha and other surahs, illustrating
the remarkable diversity of calligraphy, ornamentation and manuscript design. Together, these works form
a panorama of a written and book culture that evolved over many centuries.
A European Traveller on the Road to Samarkand
Another publishing project explores the close connections that existed between Europe and Central Asia
centuries ago. At its centre is the journey of the Spanish nobleman Ruy González de Clavijo, who was sent
by the King of Castile on a diplomatic mission to Emir Timur and travelled as far as Samarkand. His account
is regarded as an important historical testimony and a valuable source for the history of the region.
35 Years of Independence: A Country Reimagines Its Story
To mark the 35th anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Uzbekistan on 1 September 2026, a
richly illustrated publication on New Uzbekistan is currently being developed. The volume explores the
country’s history and present-day identity while also looking towards its future prospects.
“For us, cultural heritage is never static. Historical documents tell stories of people, ideas and encounters
whose impact continues to resonate today,” says Charlotte Kramer, Founder and CEO of Universal Art
Group. “Our role is to preserve this heritage with the utmost care while also creating new ways for people
to discover and engage with it.”
Publishing as a Means of Preserving Cultural Heritage
Charlotte Kramer and Alexander Wilhelm, COO of Universal Art Group, were also invited to the University
of World Economy and Diplomacy, where they delivered a masterclass on publishing and its role in
preserving and disseminating cultural heritage. Discussions with students focused on how historical and
cultural content can be documented and made accessible across geographical boundaries.
“The stimulating discussions with the students demonstrated that the question of how we preserve and
pass on cultural heritage is one that resonates strongly with younger generations as well,” says Alexander
Wilhelm of Universal Art Group. “Publishing creates lasting points of access to cultural knowledge and
enables it to be shared far beyond the place in which it originally emerged.”
Kramer also delivered a masterclass at the Uzbekistan State World Languages University.
The International Media Forum at the Center of Islamic Civilization brought together participants from
around the world. For Universal Art Group, the event provided an opportunity to deepen existing
international partnerships and establish connections for future projects.
“Especially when it comes to cultural heritage, we need dialogue across countries, disciplines and
generations,” says Kramer. “Our encounters in Uzbekistan demonstrated just how much can emerge when
different perspectives and experiences come together.”
About Universal Art Group
Universal Art Group brings together international expertise in cultural heritage, high-quality publishing,
facsimile editions and innovative technologies. Its mission is to preserve significant cultural works, make
them accessible through scholarship and publishing, and enable audiences around the world to discover
and experience them in new ways.
Press materials: universalartgroup.com/de/presseportal
www.universalartgroup.com
Media enquiries
Sylvia Marz-Wagner | SKYunlimited
+43 699 16448001
sylvia.marz-wagner@skyunlimited.at
