Ulaanbaatar, April 5, 2026 /MONTSAME/. The second edition of the “Khiimori” art exhibition opened on April 2, 2026, at the Art Gallery of the Union of Mongolian Artists.

In Mongolian culture and historical tradition, the horse has long been inseparably connected to daily life, symbolizing spirit, pride, and freedom. The “Khiimori” exhibition aims to present this valuable heritage and symbolism to the public through both contemporary and traditional visual arts, while expanding the quality and scope of artistic works.

A total of 79 works by 73 artists, representing various genres of visual art, are on display at the exhibition.

President of the the Union of Mongolian Artists, Soninbayar A., noted that the exhibition was first organized on April 2, 2024. The second edition is being held to coincide with the Year of the Horse. He also highlighted that the “World Horse Day,” initiated by the President of Mongolia, will be celebrated for the second time this year, making the event particularly symbolic. He added that it is impossible to imagine Mongolian people without horses, as they are deeply connected to national spirit and identity.

The exhibition demonstrates how this concept can be expressed through the language of art. Artists began preparing their works for this exhibition a year in advance. Some have worked for two years since the first “Khiimori” exhibition to create new pieces specifically for this event, and several works have already received awards.

Artist Enkhdelger J., participating in the exhibition for the first time, presented a work titled “Horse,” handcrafted by twisting aluminum. From one angle, the piece resembles the word “horse” written in traditional Mongol script, while from another angle, it depicts a galloping horse. The artist explained that the work reflects how people perceive events differently depending on perspective, emphasizing that there is no single “right” or “wrong” viewpoint. Through this piece, the artist aims to promote understanding, positivity, and harmony.

Artist Sukhbat Sh. presented a work titled “Heavenly Creature,” inspired by a discovery made during a research trip to Umnugobi aimag in 2025. While visiting the scenic Khermen Tsav area in Gurvantes soum, he found an object resembling a horse figure. Originally colored like the red clay of the Gobi, the piece was made using natural clay, later treated and painted for durability. The title reflects a Mongolian legend that horses were once celestial beings before being caught by humans and coming to live on earth. The artwork also visually resembles both a unicorn-like creature and a powerful Mongolian stallion.

A panel of professional artists evaluated the exhibited works based on criteria such as relevance to the theme, execution, skill, and professional level. The top prize of the “Khiimori” exhibition was awarded to Lkhagvasuren N. for the sculpture “Young Jockeys of Racehorses,” while second place went to Dugarsuren A. for the metalwork piece “Erdeniin Sudar.” Awards for outstanding works were given to Ganzorig E. for “Steppe Wind,” Chadraabal A. for “Flame – Hearth,” and Bumandorj L. for “Countryside.”

The exhibition will be open to the public until April 10.

Lhagvasuren N. “Young Jockeys of Racehorses"

Dugarsuren A. “Erdeniin Sudar”

Ganzorig E. for “Steppe Wind”