Mongolia: Unexplored Territory

Rinchinochir N. - Mongolian Traditional Painting (2012)

Là ho potuto vedere come i pastori vivano sospesi tra i frammenti della modernità – fuori dalle tende ci sono parabole tv e automobili parcheggiate – e i ritmi millenari della natura. Nelle zone fuori città si organizzano come nell’antichità gare sportive dove il cavallo è il vero protagonista. I cavalli mongoli sono piccoli ma molto robusti, resistenti alle distanze e ai climi estremi. Le tradizionali gare a cavallo risalgono molto probabilmente ai tempi di Genghis Khan.

Ulan Bator is a capital city destined to become very modern, thanks to major investments; a city animated by turbulent development (changing from a small town to a metropolis in just twenty years), which is now curbed by the judicious management of the public administration, following principles introduced by international consultants.

The Mongolians that I have met in person have all proved to be excellent business people. They are warm, interested, sporting in the true sense, ready to take risks and to fully assume their responsibilities.

I believe that this collection of works by artists of all ages can help us to understand a country that aspires to modernity, while preserving the vigorous roots of its past. Mongolian art tells us of the enchantment of nature. The infinite horizons and deep spirituality of Mongolia attract the attention of the Western world.

Luciano Benetton