Dashi Namdakov hopes Tapkhar sculpture trail will draw visitors to Buryatia

A sculpture trail by Dashi Namdakov is scheduled to open on October 11 in Buryatia’s Ivolginsky district. The artist told RIA Novosti he wants the new route to become a landmark that brings greater attention to the region.

The trail, called Stavka Chingiskhana, runs across the Tapkhar plateau. Its 4.5-kilometre route contains 12 sculptures of sacred animals from the Eastern calendar. Namdakov said the works belong within the landscape while retaining the artistic independence needed to be exhibited in museums.

Architect Dmitry Ilyin designed the trail network. Namdakov first visited the plateau about 15 years ago and recalled being struck by its rocks, changes in elevation and views.

Namdakov discussed the route with Russian President Vladimir Putin in August, during the president’s visit to Buryatia and a meeting with urbanists involved in developing Far Eastern cities. In his latest interview, the artist said his involvement reflected a desire to increase interest in the region.

He also highlighted Tuzhi, a land-art park in the Transbaikal region that opened in 2021. Its monumental wooden and metal sculptures explore Khori-Buryat traditions, nomadic culture and the relationship between people and nature.

The park’s contemporary art festival takes place in Ukurik, the village where Namdakov was born. He said the project was intended to support the village and had helped revive it. Families now attend with their children, giving the festival the character of a family and ancestral gathering.