This website is the continuation of Steve E. MOREL‘s dream and cultural intention born in March 2019, in the capital of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar. It originally took the form of a physical cultural center to give Morin Khuur lessons, introduction to calligraphy as well as lectures about Mongol ancestral culture.
UUGUUL aim to research, promote and contribute into the preservation of ancestral art and culture of Mongolia. The Morin Khuur, the Ikel, the Urtiin Duu, the Mongol language, as well as ancestral art and music are at the core of this goal!
The word UUGUUL can be understood as Original (as in initial) or even Ancestral or Native.
Gradually, the center evolved into this website, to bring the cultural exchange further and to become a source of information including culture heritage articles, a community and a learning platform for people abroad, eager to learn or simply curious about the Mongol ancestral culture!
Meet the people behind UUGUUL
Steve E. Morel
Founder
Currently working on a Ph.D. since 2023.
Master in Mongol Studies (Master Degree) – 2022.
Specialist in Mongol Language and Literature (Bachelor of Arts) – 2020.
Teaching Morin Khuur since 2016.
Researcher in traditional Mongol art (Morin Khuur, Bii Biyelgee, Urtiin Duu, Calligraphy, Morin Khuur crafting, leather crafting, seal sculpting…) since 2014.
Psychology and non-violent communication studies since 2013.
Professional in CGI industry (Direction, Photography, VFX) since 2003.
Numerous lectures about traditions, consciousness, ecology in school, interviews and TV shows.
Amgalan Batkhuu
Co-Founder
Teacher of Mongol language, Mongol script and calligraphy since 2003.
Numerous lectures and conferences about Mongol language, classical Mongol script and Mongol culture.
Consulting on Classical Mongol Script in numerous schools and establishments since 2014.
Master in Literature (Master Degree) – 2005.
Specialist in Mongol Language and Literature (Bachelor of Arts) – 1999.
Jargalsaikhan Gaanjuursuren
Co-Founder
Doctor (Ph.D) in Mongol linguistics, Mongol script.
Teacher of Mongol language (Cyrillic and Uyghur).
Lecturer (Mongol history, civilization and ethnicities) since 2001.
Teacher of History, Linguistics and Ethnicities since 1997.
Numerous publications about Mongol ethnicities and history.
EGSHIGLEN MAGNAI
UUGUUL is proud to partner with EGSHIGLEN MAGNAI, which manufactures over 30 different musical instruments divided into four types such as stringed, bowed, whipping and blowing instruments.
EGSHIGLEN MAGNAI, established in 1991 by only two members, is the first private company manufacturing, trading and repairing Mongol’s folk music instruments.
They have been expanding since the 90’s until today, and currently have a team composed of 50 craftmen and craftwomen. Egshiglen uses modern progressive techniques and technology to deliver high quality instruments, along with bags and hardcases.
Our Crafts
You can find below a selective list of our various art and crafts.
Note that our stock of original and unique creations might vary and some items might not be available at time.