On November 28, the Red Ger Gallery in Ulaanbaatar City became the stage for the powerful and evocative debut of “Depression Diary”, an exhibition by renowned Mongolian artist O.Zolbootuguldur. This deeply personal and thought-provoking showcase, running until December 15, offers visitors an intimate exploration of resilience, emotional depth, and the complexities of mental health through a unique artistic lens.
The opening ceremony drew a diverse audience of art enthusiasts, mental health advocates, and fellow creatives, transforming the gallery into a vibrant space for meaningful dialogue and reflection. With its raw emotional honesty and innovative artistic approach, the exhibition set the tone for a poignant journey through the artist’s struggles and triumphs, inviting attendees to connect with the universal themes of vulnerability and healing.
The exhibition is the culmination of the Depression Diary Art Project, developed during the artist’s three-month residency at the Cite Internationale des Arts in Paris, with the support of the Alliance Francaise. This artistic endeavor is an intimate visual narrative inspired by the artist’s personal experiences with psychological struggles, recovery, and the broader implications of trauma and healing.
Attendees at the opening were also offered an introduction to the Cite Internationale des Arts Paris Residence, providing aspiring artists with valuable insights and information about the residency’s opportunities. Artists interested in applying for this prestigious program were encouraged to engage directly with representatives at the event.
Moreover, reflecting on the pieces of art, the artist shared, “If life were a video game, this project represents a particularly challenging level I’ve managed to overcome. My time in Paris provided me with space to refine and articulate this work, but in truth, it stems from nearly five years of ups and downs—years that taught me the profound meaning of what it means to fall and rise again.” “I’ve lived through deep emotional lows that, while not always visible, were intensely real. During this time, I faced harsh judgments from others, lost connections with friends and collaborators, and yet, I was also buoyed by the unwavering support of my family, close friends, and mentors,” said O.Zolbootuguldur.
This exhibition showcases a portion of his work on an upcoming graphic novel titled “Unhealed: Trauma-Induced Psychological Wounds”, a project aimed at raising awareness about mental health issues among teenagers. Once completed, the novel will be distributed free of charge to young people vulnerable to such challenges, an initiative the artist is passionately dedicated to.
While the graphic novel is still in progress, this exhibition serves as an interim report, offering viewers a glimpse into her creative process. It also underscores the resilience required to confront and transform deeply personal struggles into art that resonates universally.
Through this exhibition, the artist conveys a powerful message: “Life is like a game with multiple levels. Whether you play it with anger, despair, or joy is ultimately up to you.” This perspective, shaped by the support of compassionate therapists, understanding listeners, and the love of those around him, fuels his belief in the healing power of community and creativity.
The Red Ger Gallery extends a heartfelt invitation to all to experience the transformative journey of “Depression Diary”. As mentioned, this remarkable exhibition delves deep into the intricate interplay of mental health, art, and the shared human experience, offering a rare opportunity to reflect on the resilience of the human spirit through the lens of evocative and deeply personal creations. Experiencing this exhibition is more than just viewing art; it’s an invitation to connect with a profound story of resilience, vulnerability, and the shared human experience. Therefore, don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in a journey that inspires reflection, understanding, and hope.
