The mysterious and atmospheric work of Bolotbek Karakeev, known professionally as KARAK, pulls viewers into a plane of exploded and collaged organic forms. His images appear at once abstract and yet hauntingly familiar. An artist, painter, and graphic designer, KARAK creates art intuitively, searching for the best way to reflect his own unique personality and “handwriting.” He borrows inspiration from the culture of his native Kyrgyz Republic, particularly their traditional applied arts of textile, embroidery, and jewelry, as well their oral literary traditions. KARAK currently lives and works in Bishkek, Kyrgyz.