Mongolia Pavilion at Venice Biennale Explores Spirituality and Vulnerability

The Mongolia Pavilion at the 2022 Venice Biennale presents "A Journey Through Vulnerability," a solo exhibition by Munkhtsetseg Jalkhaajav (Mugi). Curated by Gantuya Badamgarav, founder of the Mongolian Contemporary Art Support Association, the show continues the pavilion's focus on spirituality rooted in Mongolian nomadic culture. The exhibition features sculptures, a video installation, and works on paper across three rooms: "Dream of Gazelle" includes a stable with a gazelle partly sculpted and partly projected; "Pulse of Life" presents hybrid human-animal sculptures referencing the Buddhist concept of samsara; and "Miscarriage" displays "Keeper of Protector Bird," honoring shamanic spells to protect women from miscarriage. A soundtrack by musician Davaasuren Damjin, played on a jaw harp, evokes traditional rituals. Badamgarav notes that since the end of socialism in 1990, ancient traditions like Buddhism and shamanism have revived, inspiring contemporary artists. She emphasizes that spirituality, distinct from religion, is a personal process of self-realization and the basis of art's power. The pavilion aims to share Mongolian art globally, highlighting its nomadic heritage and sustainable future potential.