Artist Between Cultures: 'If You Donβt Follow, the Manggus Will Come and Take You'
Mongolian artist Javkhlan Ariunbold reflects on her deeply spiritual connection to her homeland and the themes of her work as displayed at the Kallmann Museum in Germany.
Javkhlan Ariunbold, a Mongolian artist, shares her unique connection to the vast landscapes of her homeland, where even natural elements are infused with spirit and meaning. While the German Brothers Grimm may have a different view on nature, Ariunbold believes the steppes of Mongolia provide a profound spiritual experience. Her statements reveal a belief that each element of nature, from rivers to hills, has a life force, and the invisible beings of the landscape watch over her.
This deep spiritual connection and childhood memories of mystical creatures have shaped Ariunbold's artistic journey, leading her to Germany to study and reflect on her heritage. The Kallmann Museum in Ismaning, near Munich, is currently showcasing her work, allowing a glimpse into her thoughts and experiences that cross the boundaries between cultures. Her art embodies the rich tradition of storytelling and respect for nature that characterizes Mongolian culture, standing in contrast to more industrialized perspectives.
Ariunbold's transition from the vastness of the Mongolian steppe to life in Germany illustrates the challenges and triumphs of navigating multiple cultural identities. While her art serves as a bridge between these worlds, it also poses questions about modernity, spirituality, and environmental consciousness. Through her exhibitions, Ariunbold invites viewers to engage with both the spiritual and tangible aspects of life, reflecting on their own connections to nature and heritage.