22/10/2025
Zhubanov University Student Wins Grand Prix at International Competition in the USA
A work by Alfiya Usakaeva, a student of the Design educational program, was recognized as the best at the international competition “Ossi di Seppia – Cuttlefish Bones”, held in the United States.
Her unique artwork, created using the linocut technique, received high praise from the jury, which included Cristiano Maggipinto, Ambassador of Italy to New Zealand, and Alan Judge, Rector of Victoria University in New Zealand.
The piece was inspired by Eugenio Montale’s poetry collection Ossi di Seppia and depicts a spiral seashell with Roman numerals, symbolizing the endless flow of time and inner turmoil. According to the author, the image of a woman striving toward the depth of the spiral reflects the value of time and the sense of eternal experience.
The annual ex-libris competition, traditionally held in the United States, is organized by the American Society of Book Designers and Collectors. Artists from Turkey, France, Italy, Poland, and other countries took part in the event.
Alfiya Usakaeva’s achievement highlights the high international creative potential of young talents from Kazakhstan.