Armenian Genocide, Victory Day, globalization problems and their reflection in Armenia’s cultural life

Review of April 26-May 2 cultural events.

During the past week, Armenia’s cultural life was influenced by the 95th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. Famous cultural workers were speculating whether the art can really promote international recognition of the first Genocide of the 20th century.

May 6, 2010

PanARMENIAN.Net - High and mighties are not touched by art, according to publicist Perch Zeytuntsyan. “I have written several works on the Armenian Genocide. But movers and shakers pursue their own interests. Whatever you do, they will not stir a finger unless it coincides with their plans,” he says. “The world condemns the language of force but, sometimes, this is the only language it understands.”

“We failed to make the Armenian Genocide a universal pain, what is partially explained by Soviet Union’s attitude to the issue,” renowned Armenian actor Sos Sargsyan said, adding that “the great power of art is capable of forming mentalities, advancing international recognition of Genocide.”

Yerevan hosted Italian artist and sculptor Anselmo Francesconi’s exhibition organized in commemoration of 95th anniversary of Armenian Genocide. The exhibition was sponsored by RA Ministry of Culture with the assistance of Italian Embassy to Armenia.

Hayk Melikyan gave a concert of modern piano music in Komitas Chamber Music House on April 30. The event was organized by the RA Ministry of Culture and French Embassy to Armenia. Meanwhile young talents from Yerevan and regions of Armenia performed at the 8th republican contest of violin and violoncello players. The winners received gifts and money awards.

On April 27, painting-lovers could enjoy 400 works of Harutyun Kalents displayed in his house museum, the opening of which kicked off the events dedicated to the artist’s 100th birth anniversary. An exhibition will open on August 7 in the National Gallery of Armenia.

Member of the Union of Writers of Russia Levon Hovsepyan presented his vision of modern globalization problems at a photo exhibition.

The past week gave a start to preparations for the Victory Day celebrated on May 9. Martiros Saryan’s paintings featuring the Great Patriotic War will be displayed in the artist’s house museum in Yerevan.

Free entrance to Armenian museums will be announced on the night of May 18, the International Museum Day, offering visitors a chance to make a tour of several museums in just one night. The action aims at raising youth awareness on true art. The event has been held since 1999, under the aegis of EU and UNESCO.

Mane Amirjanyan