The Mongolian Artists

Say that again?

Khanbogd.

And this is a village?

Quite remote.

And yet they have artists.

Traveling through. And sometimes staying there. Nomads.

But these sand structures they create—tabletop. They sound like the Tibetans.

There may be some crossover. But you would have to call the Mongolian productions ‘folk religious’. There were once a number of local religions. The point is, Pastor, they’re only going to be in your area for a week or two next month.

I understand that, Mr. Willis. But you see, our church committee is measured. They take their time. All in all we’re a quiet group.

Pastor Borowski, these are mystical men. Every dollar they make they send home to their families.

We do consider making charitable donations. That, too, takes time. It’s not necessary for them to come here and demonstrate their sand painting to our congregation.

Each work of art requires a week.

That long.

It’s very detailed.

You say you’re their official US agent?

I represent several dozen artists and entertainers.

How did you encounter this group?

Through my cousin. He’s a traveler.

Can you describe their religion?

It’s based on the sun. For them, the source of life. They have gods and demi-gods, all connected to the sun. There are monthly and yearly cycles. And then some longer cycles.

We’re open to all religious beliefs.

They use sand from the Gobi Desert.

Let me talk to the committee. Send me your materials.

I emailed them to you.

I don’t open attachments. I’ve had trouble with them.

I’ll overnight them to you.

These Nomad artists. They were born in Mongolia?

Well, not originally. They emigrated there.

From?

Nigeria.

That’s a long trip.

They had been harassed.

By whom?

Their government.

The Nigerian government?

They’d been put in prison.

That’s terrible. Why were they jailed?