Diplomat Magazine celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations between the UK and Mongolia
LUAP was invited by the Monglian Embassy to write an artcle for Diplomat Magazine about his recent trip to Mongolia. The magazine is celebrating the 60 years of diplomatic relations between the UK and Mongolia.
Read the article here
FINDING BALANCE: A 'PINK BEAR' JOURNEY THROUGH MONGOLIA'S LIGHT AND LANDSCAPE
By Paul Robinson, (known in the art world as LUAP)
As an artist deeply entrenched in the fusion of adventure and art, I, Paul Robinson, known in the art world as LUAP, have found a profound connection between my personal experiences and the artistic narratives I weave. Through the vibrant mediums of painting, photography, and sculpture, I aim to tackle contemporary challenges such as mental health, the environment, and societal isolation. Central to my artistic expression is the enigmatic figure of The Pink Bear, a playful yet profound symbol that journeys alongside me, blurring the lines between reality and imagination, innocence, and the complexities of adulthood.
The genesis of The Pink Bear dates back to a transformative moment during my therapy, when a childhood memory resurfaced, leading to its resurrection as a guiding light in my art. It serves as a metaphor for exploration, encapsulating the spirit of discovery that propels my creative odyssey. Notably, my recent expedition across the stunning Mongolian landscape is a testament to this ethos, as The Pink Bear traverses the rugged terrain, urging us to reconnect with the natural world and our inner resilience.
During my transformative journey through Mongolia with renowned survival expert Megan Hine, the physical and mental demands were relentless, pushing me to confront the extremities of nature and my own fears. From enduring drastic temperature fluctuations, navigating perilous landscapes, to embracing nomadic traditions on horseback, the expedition delved beyond the realms of artistic expression, urging me to unravel the fragile relationship between humanity and the environment.
Amidst the breathtaking vistas and the fading echoes of a traditional way of life, I recognised the urgency to capture Mongolia's essence before it succumbs to the relentless waves of modernisation and climate change. The decision to embrace the traditional mode of travel on horseback, eschewing the convenience of modern vehicles, mirrored my commitment to minimise the carbon footprint and shed light on the consequences of rampant consumption.
Beyond the artistic pursuit, my mission extends to liberating art from the confines of conventional gallery spaces, bringing it closer to diverse audiences. The Pink Bear's presence in these remote terrains not only accentuates the contrast between human intervention and untouched nature but also serves as a bridge between the complexities of the contemporary world and the simplicity of childhood wonder.
Looking ahead, our proposed expedition aims to unravel the intrinsic connection between circadian rhythms, mental well-being, and the transformative power of light.
By immersing ourselves in Mongolia's awe-inspiring landscapes, we hope to kindle a deeper appreciation for the healing potential of nature and challenge the stigma surrounding mental health.
Through the lens of authentic storytelling and captivating visuals, our mission is to foster a compassionate environment that encourages open conversations and self-acceptance. As I embark on this transformative journey, I aspire to delve deeper into my resilience, unearth hidden strengths, and offer a guiding light to those grappling with their own emotional challenges.
