Mang Den Wooden Statue Garden – An Open-Air Folk Art Museum

In your journey to explore the Mang Den Ecotourism Area (Kon Plong district, Kon Tum province), the Wooden Statue Garden is a must-visit destination. This unique place not only showcases artistic value but also preserves the distinctive spiritual and cultural beauty of the ethnic minorities in the Central Highlands of Vietnam.

Introduction to Mang Den Wooden Statue Garden

Location:
The Wooden Statue Garden is situated within the Pa Sy Waterfall Tourist Complex in Mang Den, known for its cool climate, pristine nature, and picturesque landscapes.

History:
Established in 2013 after the first Folk Wood Carving Festival in Kon Tum (March 5–18, 2013), the garden was part of the Week of Culture, Sports, and Tourism celebrating the 100th anniversary of Kon Tum province (1913–2013).

Spread over a hillside of over one hectare of primary forest, the garden features more than 100 wooden statues carved by 33 indigenous artisans. Each piece reflects a story, depicting the daily life, customs, and beliefs of the ethnic communities in the Central Highlands.

The Unique Beauty of Central Highlands Folk Wooden Statues

Materials and craftsmanship:
The statues are handcrafted from natural wood using simple tools like axes, chisels, and knives. Without prior designs or sketches, the artisans rely on their innate skills and emotions to create these raw yet soulful works of art.

Themes of the statues:
The wooden statues are diverse, portraying various aspects of life among the Central Highlands communities:

• People: Daily activities such as rice pounding, weaving, hunting, drinking traditional wine, and family outings.
• Animals: Familiar creatures like buffaloes, dogs, cats, snakes, monkeys, elephants, and birds.
• Spirituality: Phallic symbols and fertility-themed sculptures, representing human desires and vitality.

A Harmonious Blend of Art and Nature

Set amidst a dense forest, the Wooden Statue Garden features simple stone-paved paths that lead visitors through different display areas. The serene and mystical atmosphere offers a unique connection between art and nature.

Highlights:

• Visitors can admire statues in various forms and expressions, from joyful to contemplative.
• Feel the authenticity and simplicity in every carving detail.
• Discover the symbolic meanings behind each statue, gaining insight into the traditions and beliefs of the Central Highlands' people.

Cultural and Artistic Significance

The wooden statues are not just art pieces; they hold an important place in the spiritual lives of the ethnic minorities in the Central Highlands. These sculptures reflect the harmony between humans and nature, symbolizing their aspirations for a balanced and sustainable life.

Cultural preservation:

• The garden serves as a repository of unique cultural values, helping to prevent them from fading in the modern world.
• It inspires younger generations to appreciate and cherish the heritage passed down by their ancestors.

Tips for Visiting the Wooden Statue Garden

• Respect the artwork by avoiding physical contact or causing damage.
• Keep the environment clean by not littering.
• Follow the designated paths to protect the natural surroundings.

Mang Den Wooden Statue Garden – A Must-Visit Destination

For art and culture enthusiasts seeking a tranquil space immersed in nature, the Wooden Statue Garden in Mang Den is an ideal destination. It not only offers relaxation but also provides an opportunity to understand the lives and spirit of the Central Highlands’ people.