On November 3, the Art and Architecture Cultural Center in Essen, Germany unveiled “This Is Now”, an exhibition commemorating half a century of diplomatic ties between Mongolia and Germany, alongside the 75th anniversary of the Rural Artists Association of Essen. This landmark exhibition features over 100 artworks from 40 talented artists across the two countries, presenting a diverse array of visual arts, including painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, and digital art.
The opening ceremony was graced by esteemed guests Ambassador of Mongolia to Germany B.Mandakhbileg, Mayor of Essen Thomas Kufen, the head of the Cultural Foundation of Essen and the director of the Museum Folkwang, Peter Gorschluter, who served as the guest of honor. The event’s impact was amplified by Ts.Gan-Erdene, a cultural ambassador whose vision and dedication have strengthened artistic dialogue between Mongolia and Germany, bridging cultural divides and showcasing the profound role of art in fostering international relationships.
Supported by the Union of Mongolian Artists, an organization with an 85-year legacy, this exhibition aligns with Mongolia’s 2024 “Year of Supporting Foreign Relations”. The exhibition stands as a testament to the countries’ shared artistic heritage and a promising foundation for future collaborations.
Through this inspired initiative of joint projects, deep creative research, and thought-provoking exhibitions, Mongolian and German artists find themselves immersed in one another’s artistic traditions and contemporary practices. Here, the initiative goes beyond mere exchange, inviting artists to delve deeply into the narratives, aesthetic sensibilities, and creative techniques that define both nations.
In this dynamic space, artists draw connections between ancient and modern, blending traditional forms with experimental approaches. Mongolian artists contribute the rich textures of their nomadic heritage, with intricate patterns inspired by traditional textiles and landscapes that resonate with spiritual symbolism. Meanwhile, German artists bring insights from their own storied history of modern art innovation - expressionist styles, abstract compositions, and Bauhaus-style design. This environment of creative cross-pollination cultivates a fusion of these influences, producing works that are both rooted in heritage and boldly progressive.
Beyond technical exchange, artists share stories, perspectives and philosophies, creating a collaborative space where cultural narratives are woven together. This approach encourages artists to re-envision familiar motifs, reinterpret their own symbols, and discover resonances in each other’s journeys. Through another culture’s lens, they unearth new meanings and inspirations they might not have otherwise encountered.
Ultimately, “This Is Now” fosters artistic innovation and deeper intercultural understanding. By creating bridges of empathy and respect, it enriches the artistic landscapes of Mongolia and Germany alike, each nation carrying home a piece of the other’s creative soul. This exchange stands as a testament to art’s boundary-transcending power, cultivating a world where creativity knows no borders and diverse expressions blend into something beautifully new yet timeless.
Running from November 3 to 24, “This Is Now” invites art enthusiasts and the public to experience a vibrant cultural exchange through the works of talented artists.
