Kyrgyzstan is home to numerous personalities renowned on the international stage. Among them, Suimenkul Chokmorov stands out for his remarkable talent and commitment across multiple artistic disciplines. An exceptional actor, he was also an accomplished painter. He further distinguished himself through his dedication to sport despite fragile health that had followed him since early childhood.

Suimenkul Chokmorov—perhaps a name unfamiliar to you. Here is his portrait!

Suimenkul Chokmorov: A Brief Biography

Suimenkul Chokmorov was born in a small Kyrgyz village called Chon Tash on November 9, 1939. Throughout his life, he excelled in several fields, but became especially renowned in the arts world as a painter and actor.

Regarding his academic journey, Suimenkul Chokmorov accumulated diplomas from prestigious institutions. In 1964, he completed his studies in art at the Leningrad Academy of Arts and the Arts School of Frunze.

In 1977, thanks to his acting talent and impressive achievements, he served as a jury member at the 10th International Moscow Film Festival.

Suimenkul Chokmorov passed away on September 26, 1992, leaving behind unforgettable memories, remarkable films, and beautiful paintings.

Suimenkul Chokmorov and Cinematography

Suimenkul Chokmorov began his acting career with appearances in several films. He received his first "real role" in a major film production at age 27. With his exceptional performances, he quickly gained recognition. He landed the lead role in the film "Karash Karalash (A Shooting at the Karash Pass)" in 1969. That same year, Irina Poplavskaya cast Suimenkul to play Daniyar in her film "Djamilya", adapted from the eponymous novel by Chingiz Aitmatov. Following the success of this adaptation, the actor was called upon to participate in films based on three other works by Chingiz Aitmatov:

• "I am Tien Shan", released in 1972

• "The Red Apple", released around 1975

• "Early Birdies"

In his acting résumé, Suimenkul Chokmorov also counts roles in:

• Extraordinary Commissar (1970)

• The Seventh Bullet (1972)

• The Ferocious One (1974)

• Dersu Uzala (1975)

Suimenkul Chokmorov and Painting

Beyond being a talented actor, Suimenkul Chokmorov was also a distinguished painter. Between successive film shoots throughout the year, he found solace in painting. As an art instructor at the prestigious Frunze Academy of Art, he created numerous masterpieces that continue to captivate art enthusiasts of all nationalities. Among his most celebrated works are the following paintings:

• "Spring in a village" (1985),

• "Flourishing" (1987),

• "Portrait of a veteran Sadybakasov",

• "S.Karalaev portrait" (1971),

• "Sayakbai manaschy",

• "Kyrgyz crafts experts" (1986),

• and "Celebration" (1987).

Suimenkul Chokmorov and His Athletic Spirit

During his lifetime, Suimenkul Chokmorov was a dedicated sportsman. Despite his fragile health, a condition apparent since childhood, he chose to overcome his ailments to pursue sports. Among the available disciplines, he decided to become a volleyball player. He joined several clubs and excelled at his position. With his developed skills, he was selected to represent the Kyrgyz national volleyball team during his university years. He was also enlisted to compete with the Leningrad Team in important matches.