This rare presentation of Mongolian art explores the rich evolution of Mongolian writing and calligraphic traditions, beginning with the Old Uyghur script from the time of Genghis Khan and its development to the classical Mongolian vertical script, to the creation of the Soyombo script by the Mongolian artist and scholar Zanabazar, to the introduction of the Cyrillic system in the early mid-20th century, and the subsequent revival of Mongolia’s historical calligraphy styles in modern times. This study group highlights how each script reflects Mongolia’s cultural identity, religious influences, and historical transitions. Even during periods of foreign influence, the vertical script served as a cultural anchor, preserving Mongolian identity today
The talk will be followed by a hands-on workshop learning and creating an original Mongolian calligraphic work, including writing your name.
Enkhtuya (Tuya) Bliss is the founder and director of the Mongolian Arts and Education Center (MAEC), an organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the living heritage of Mongolia through community-based arts education. Under her leadership, MAEC has become a cultural hub offering accessible programs in Mongolian language, classical Mongolian vertical script calligraphy, and Morin Khuur (horse‑head fiddle) music, serving both youth and adults across the Bay Area.
This study group consists of a morning session and an afternoon session. Please note that lunch is not included in the registration fee. Attendees can purchase lunch in the museum café, and are welcome to bring food into the Koret Education Center.
Registration Policies
The Society for Asian Art’s cancellation policy requires at least one week’s advance written notice in order to receive a refund of registration fees. This excludes our Travel programs, which have separate cancellation policies, as well as any programs where a specific refund policy is stated on the event page. Your fees will be returned to you through a check in the mail. To cancel, please contact us.
For programs located within the Asian Art Museum, the museum entrance fee must be paid separately and is not included with your registration fee.
Please note that by registering for a program, you are giving consent to the SAA to be photographed or videoed as a participant.
