In their first documentaries and photographs they show the transition of their homeland, often focusing on the effect the communist state had on the lives and the sense of identity of the Kyrgyz people.
The prestigious Gwangju Biennale in South Korea invited the duo and their students to exhibit in the 2012 Round table edition.
By mid 2014 however they refer to their art school in the past tense, citing economic hardships as the reason for its demise.
[3][5] In 2010, Kasmalieva and Djumaliev were honored with the Dutch Prince Claus Award for outstanding achievements in culture and development.
The jury acknowledged "their path-breaking art practice, their important contributions to contemporary culture in Central Asia, and the chances they offer young artists.