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Yo. Dalkh-ochir, who has been dubbed “the father of Mongolian contemporary art”, has been actively exhibiting and promoting Mongolian contemporary art since 1980s. He has pioneered the use of installations and land art projects in the 1990s, popularizing these mediums among younger artists. In 2002 Dalkh-ochir has established the “Blue sun” contemporary art group, which brings together many emerging artists working in different mediums. His protégés include D. Batzorig (Bazo), B. Chinbat, D. Dorjderem and T. Enkhbold, among others. “Messages”, hosted by XanaduART gallery, is the first solo exhibition by the artist in Ulaanbaatar in many years. Dalkha, as he is known, is exhibiting several large scale paintings, sculptures and installations united under one concept – “Messages”. The word has several different connotations in Dalkha’s work – first of all, it embodies a spiritual and holy element, secondly, it addresses the question of technology taking over human lives, thereby separating men from the primordial bond with nature. In relation to this issue, the artist has named his paintings after the text messages he has received while working on the painting, which quite literally goes with the title “Messages”. The four-limbed figure in his paintings and sculptures is a captivating image, entrapping the viewer with its odd composition. Along the lines of the title, one may see it as the image of the modern man, who has been infinitely accessorized. However, the naked figure still appears very primitive as its sits surrounded by a primal landscape. Man’s connection and dependence upon nature is a theme Dalkh-ochir has frequently explored, and his latest works still retain this philosophy. Along with the paintings, the exhibition includes an installation created with objects which the artist used and interacted with during the five months he spent in his studio in preparation for the exhibition. Dead flies, cigarette butts and odd trinkets fill the plaster boards as witnesses of the artistic process. Thus, the figure of the artist is brought to the forefront. “Messages” will be on view at XanaduART gallery from February 14 until February 28, 2007. |
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Yo. Dalkh-ochir |