The Oglethorpe University Museum of Art (OUMA) begins 2026 with “Oneself and Cherished Traditions,” an exhibition that brings together centuries of artistic heritage. Featuring traditional Asian scrolls, works from Mongolia, Nepal and Tibet, and significant pieces from OUMA’s own permanent collection, the exhibition bridges past and present in inspiring ways.

At the heart of the exhibition is a newly commissioned painting by celebrated Mongolian artist Uuriintuya Dagvasambuu, created in collaboration with Sapar Contemporary Gallery and the Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art. The commission was made possible through the generous support of longtime OUMA patron Richard King.

Renowned as a modern master of Mongol Zurag, Dagvasambuu blends traditional Mongolian and Buddhist motifs with contemporary themes, often centering on the experiences of women and the evolving rhythms of life in Mongolia’s post‑nomadic era. For this commission, she brought that same spirit of storytelling and her fascination with technology to her interpretation of Oglethorpe University.

After exploring Oglethorpe through its virtual tour, Dagvasambuu said she was struck by the way “tradition and innovation are beautifully intertwined.”

These contemporary symbols appear alongside imaginative depictions of iconic Oglethorpe architecture, students in motion, and even the university’s stormy petrel—both flying and running through the sky. Dagvasambuu also wove in a nod to Dr. Kathryn McClymond, Oglethorpe’s first female president, as part of the artwork’s celebration of legacy and progress.

“This commission became a truly fascinating experience for me,” says Dagvasambuu. “Beyond my imagined impression of the school, I aimed to weave in Oglethorpe University’s historical journey, achievements, and sense of pride. At the same time, the client’s openness—allowing me to freely employ my own artistic approach and the expressive exaggeration characteristic of Mongolian painting—became one of the most rewarding aspects of this project.”

“I’m incredibly excited for students to see this work of art,” says Elizabeth H. Peterson Jennings, director of OUMA. “It is a great example of contemporary painting from a part of the world which may be wholly unfamiliar to many of our students. I hope it instills a sense of Petrel Pride and excitement about our traditions and offerings.”

After the exhibition concludes, the painting will take on an even more central role on campus in the Turner Lynch Campus Center, where students will encounter it daily.

“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Oglethorpe University community for trusting me and inviting me on this creative journey, where imagination and reality merge into a meaningful and engaging work of art,” said Dagvasambuu.

With its blend of traditional Asian works and contemporary artistic voices, “Oneself and Cherished Traditions” invites visitors to consider how personal and cultural histories evolve—and how they continue to inform the ways we see ourselves and each other.

Through Dagvasambuu’s vivid interpretation of campus life, the exhibition beautifully reflects Oglethorpe’s commitment to global engagement, the arts and creative exploration.

“Oneself and Cherished Traditions” opens Jan. 16 at the Oglethorpe University Museum of Art. On Jan. 29, the museum will host Tim McHenry, curator of the Mandala Lab at the Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art, for a lunch and learn. He will speak about the opportunities bringing “serious fun” and concepts of play in museums and how this allows us to understand the art and ourselves better.