A Journey of Artistic Discovery

Residing in Yerevan, Mary Badalian stands as an accomplished contemporary visual artist, whose journey through art is as distinctive as her creations. Armed with a law degree, Mary’s path was poised for legal pursuits, but her innate artistic spirit steered her towards an extraordinary voyage of creative self-discovery. This journey has not only expanded her artistic horizons but has also earned her esteemed recognition on the international stage.

Amidst her law studies at the esteemed Slavonic University of Armenia, Mary’s inner world underwent a profound transformation, awakening a latent passion for art as a means of self-expression. This marked the genesis of her unique artistic odyssey. Her style and technique, characterized by a harmonious fusion of innovation and tradition, bear the indelible mark of her grandmother—an accomplished embroiderer whose influence runs deep in Mary’s work.

Mary’s art transcends mere creativity; it’s a heartfelt homage to her roots, an intricate tapestry of her personal and cultural heritage. Her ability to seamlessly blend traditionally feminine crafts with the nuances of fine art is a testament to her innate artistic prowess. Each stroke of her brush carries the legacy of her grandmother’s needle, intricately weaving together past and present, tradition and innovation.

A graduate of the Institute of Contemporary Art Moscow, Mary’s commitment to artistic growth and refinement is unwavering. Her current educational journey at the Institute of Contemporary Art Yerevan reflects her dedication to exploring new avenues for her artistic expression. With each new chapter, Mary continually pushes the boundaries of her creativity, seeking to carve her niche in the ever-evolving world of contemporary art.

Mary’s artworks have transcended local boundaries, finding resonance in international exhibitions and galleries. Her distinctive approach to art, coupled with her deeply ingrained respect for her cultural heritage, has garnered both admiration and acclaim from art enthusiasts and critics alike. Through her work, Mary offers the world a window into her soul—a captivating journey that seamlessly blends the personal and the universal.

In the heart of Yerevan, Mary Badalian stands as a testament to the transformative power of art. Her journey reflects the beauty of embracing one’s passions, and her art radiates the essence of creative exploration. As her artistic voyage continues to unfold, there’s no doubt that Mary will leave an indelible mark on the canvas of contemporary art, reminding us all of the boundless possibilities of self-expression.

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Transforming Art with Innovation

Born in Yerevan, Armenia, Lilit Eghiazaryan is a dedicated artist who continually explores new avenues for artistic expression. Her sculptures are a testament to unconventional ideas, reflecting her lifelong commitment to art. Lilit’s passion lies in capturing the essence of transformations, both external and internal. “We constantly live amidst transformations. It’s vital to consistently revise our perspectives,” she emphasizes.

The allure of Lilit Eghiazaryan’s works lies in their ability to convey profound narratives without excessive description. Her art embodies existentialism and drama, often portraying individuals isolated from their external surroundings. It’s a rebellion against the mundane, a protest that breathes life into the gray. Born in 1996 into a family of artists, Lilit’s creative foundation was solidified during her years of study at the Panos Terlemezyan State College of Fine Arts from 2014 to 2019, where she focused on painting.

Over the course of her education, Lilit shaped a nuanced and expressive psychology, seeking the ideal outlet for her own thoughts and emotions. Her paintings exude sensuality, yet possess an intellectual depth. “We always live in transformations. It’s necessary to consistently revise our perspectives,” she notes.

Lilit’s art thrives on metamorphosis, where paradoxical forms find harmony. Her compositions skillfully blend contrasting elements of the natural world, capturing the nuances that surface when consciousness is freed from the subconscious. This is the very moment of revelation—a birth of the essential. Is it an evasion of realism or an attempt to come as close to it as possible? Her artwork provides the answers.

What sets her art apart is its biological vision—a perspective that distinguishes her work. It’s a philosophical perception of phylogenesis mirrored in ontogenesis—a surreal beginning in nature and its continuation in art. Her pieces are marked by weighty artistic hues, color harmonies, and at the same time, vivid color contrasts that evoke a unique creative atmosphere.

Lilit’s journey through art is characterized by an unceasing search for new techniques. Her sculptures are a testament to unconventional ideas, showcasing a modern approach. Her use of materials is both unique and innovative—transforming simple metal into art. At first glance, it appears strange and yet undeniably unique.

Lilit Eghiazaryan’s art is an ever-evolving exploration, a journey that defies convention and seeks the extraordinary in the ordinary. Her creations transcend boundaries, inviting viewers to embrace the complexity of transformation and the boundless possibilities of artistic expression.

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A Creative Journey

It took thirty years, but the multidisciplinary artist eventually found her true passion in
painting. Gohar Sargsyan was born into a family of artists in Gyumri, where exhibitions
and theaters were her childhood hangouts. She studied at the National Center for
Aesthetics and experienced art in its different forms at an early age. She graduated
from the Yerevan State Institute of Theater and Cinematography, majoring in
animation.“Even Though I had painting lessons as a child, I had never thought of
becoming a painter until I realized that the paint and brush give me the freedom to
express myself. I tried different things and I am happy I did because now I can apply all
the knowledge I have gained in my paintings,” says Gohar. One’s past, present, and
future are inseparable from one’s self, according to her. From the times she feels the
influence of the puppet theater she frequented as a child to the times she is gripped by
fears of an uncertain future, her works are reflection of all.
She began her career with textile design and grew into an accomplished scarf designer.
Graphic design, video art, animation, and more: Her experiments with different forms of
art do not have any limits. Her video arts are the resumption of what she starts in her
paintings, delivering the ideas that the canvas, paper, and paint fail to do. “The video art
completes my paintings. You can see captured movements on the canvas or paper. By
animating those movements, I get to see things that were invisible in my paintings,
hence finishing what I started to paint,” says Gohar.
Gohar works independently of any particular style or medium. She allows the ideas to
decide on her style, making her works and series stylistically distinguishable from one
another. “I start a piece without choosing the medium. Rather the medium chooses me
when I start working on an idea. It is similar to the work of a writer. I start and let go of
any boundaries. It is interesting to see where the developments take me,” explains
Gohar. According to her, people as individuals never cease to evolve and changes
happen constantly. Consequently, clinging to a specific style or medium restricts the
artist’s freedom to create. Time and contemporary issues are the ultimate
decision-makers in her works.
Her inspiration comes from daily life, people, their relationships, and human connection
with the cosmos. “I try to understand humans, their thoughts and emotions. It is always
interesting to know how they view this world and represent themselves,” says Gohar.
She studies herself, mankind, and the universe as a whole because she believes they
are inseparable from one another.
Since the start of the pandemic, she has been working on a series called Strangers in
the Room Installation. The series raises a question: When do we consider someone a
stranger? In these series, she tries to define the fine line between strangeness and
familiarity by making emotional connections between her strangers and the viewers.
Strangers in the Room is to be displayed at the National Library soon and she hopes it
will make its way into different regions in Armenia as well as international platforms.
According to Gohar, the source of inspiration for this series is inexhaustible and it has
the potential to evolve and go further.
Gohar’s collaboration with the Yerevan Biennial Art Foundation began when she was
looking for a space large enough to work on big canvases. Always seeking challenges,
she joined the Artist Collective, a program organized by YBAF. She worked with a group
of artists for two months at Latitude Art Space where people could watch the artists
work. Difficult enough for Gohar, who enjoys working in isolation, it was also intriguing
for her to see how the viewers react while viewing the artworks on the go. “Back then, I
was working on a family portrait. Almost towards finishing the work, I started to dislike it.
There was a strong desire to remove everything and start over. Subsequently, I waited
for the right moment to cover the canvas with the white paint because I could foresee
the reactions it could spark. For me as an artist, it was a new beginning while it was
destruction for the viewers. I could sense disappointment and anger they were feeling
when they saw the white canvas again,” recalled Gohar.
Growing up and working in a community of artists, she has witnessed the challenges
Armenian artists face in the country. “ I have seen very talented artists throughout my
life whose works could have been compared with those of world-class artists. Against all
the odds, from old art schools to institutions that are not really supportive of modern art,
these artists never have ceased to strive,” says Gohar. More support from the
government can provide a safe environment for artists to openly express themselves
through their art. On the other hand, she believes that it is a step forward if people as
individuals genuinely dedicate themselves to their work. “Regardless of your job title, if
you do your job well, you become a source of inspiration for people surrounding you.
And that is how you make an impact without putting any deliberate effort,” says Gohar.

Interviewed by Annie Nazari

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 From Architecture to Artistry

Born in Sisian, Armenia, Armen Hakobjanyan is an architect and a painter. Growing up in a
family of artists, paper and pencil became his childhood companions and he studied at the art
school of Sisian until he moved to Yerevan aged 16. His relocation to Yerevan was a major
landmark in the formation of his painting style, first because of his studies, and second, because
of the urban scenery that was different from what he had in his birthplace. He graduated from
the National Polytechnic University of Armenia, majoring in architecture. The art of designing
and constructing buildings led him to discovery of new compositions and texture in painting.
Moreover, he grew up seeing the mountains on the horizon in Sisian. He recalled, “It was
bizarre to see rooftops and antennas out of the window every day when I relocated to Yerevan.”
The unfamiliar horizons were the beginning of his search for the familiar, the mountains. Years
passed and his artistic eyes became accustomed to new horizons but mountains remained the
recurring themes in his works.
“It happened to be mountains, it was never intentional. To me, my paintings are oil paint flowing
down the canvas,” says Armen. He studied under Ashot Avagyan at the art school. The
teacher’s unconventional technique of working with paint aroused his interest in oil paint and
new techniques. Years later, when he studied architecture, the focus was once more on the
materials, therefore, turning his attention to the medium in his artworks. “When I realized that
the paint can stream down the canvas, I tried to get more of what oil paint could do. Then the
experiments resulted in the appearance of mountains and later, a series called 0-panorama,”
explains Armen. He believes when the artist gives the medium the freedom to develop, the paint
duplicates nature in its own way. In his case, it is the formation of the mountains that have
undergone a geographical process over centuries.
“I think about how to paint rather than what to paint,” says Armen. According to him, there are
two approaches: The artist either develops his work around a specific theme or the medium
prompts them to produce the theme. “For the time being, the latter is my approach. By the
medium becoming a source of inspiration for the painter, the second approach is the best way to
overcome the artist’s block. In fact, it is a loop: First, the medium generates the technique.
Second, the technique brings about the start of a series. Next, the idea develops until it
becomes exhausted, making the artist start all over again. Essentially, the functional technique
at the beginning transforms itself into something symbolic and a series comes to life with the
completion of each loop,” explains Armen.
Nonetheless, he thinks that he is gradually surrendering to the idea that his works represent the
mountains of Sisian. The idea manifests itself in the depiction of the sky as Sisian is situated on
top of the mountains, giving the spectators an eye-level view of the sky. Hence, the sky takes up
relatively the same amount of space in his compositions as the mountains do. “ This
composition must have formed itself in my childhood. Even the choice of colors is probably
inspired by the scenery that I had in Sisian,” admits Aram.
Armen believes 0-panorama still has the potential to develop and display more. “If the viewers
consider my artwork as a painting of mountains, then that is not pure art. Why do we have to
depict something that already exists in its absolute beauty and perfection? ” asks Armen, “A
painting has to be a painting, nothing more,” he continues. However, It is a long journey and it
takes imagination. It is impossible to get to that point overnight thus, any deliberate interference
is unauthentic according to Armen. “I will be copying Mark Rothko if I do it now,” he says
humorously. The artist, who started his professional journey without knowing that painting could
be a career, now stresses the need for hard work and not a muse to arrive.
Organized by Yerevan Biennial Art Foundation, 0-panorama went on display in May 2021,
marking Armen’s first official exhibition. “I could not see any point in having exhibitions before.
But I learned a lot from the experience,” says Armen. He realized that exhibitions are
independent of artists. “It is all the same for the viewers what the artist thinks of the pieces
displayed there. They form their own opinions and might pick up the least favorite works of the
painter. Their reactions were interesting to watch,” he continues. However, he does not wish to
display the same series elsewhere. He will have more exhibitions when he feels that there is
something new to show.

Interviewed by Annie Nazari

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A Journey into Artistic Harmony

Elsa’s artworks resonate with the language of freedom, a harmonious dance with the world where liberation becomes the bridge between the artist and her craft. Born in 1996 in Yerevan, Armenia, into a family of artists, Elsa’s destiny was woven with threads of creativity. Her journey began to unfold at the Panos Terlemezyan State College of Fine Arts, Yerevan, where she immersed herself in the realm of painting from 2010 to 2015.

Surrounded by an artistic atmosphere and direct interaction with accomplished painters, Elsa’s creative spirit was nurtured, shaping her perception of the world and guiding her cultural path. Elsa’s canvases serve as vessels of her emotional nature, a conduit for her deep-seated emotions and unwavering love for art.

To Elsa, the act of creation is a form of self-expression, an avenue for maximum authenticity, and most significantly, a conduit for achieving harmony between the inner self and the external world. Art, for her, is the precise path she traverses to reach this equilibrium. With an observant eye and a cautious disposition, Elsa captures even the simplest of moments, often serving as seeds for new creative ideas. Her vivid imagination transforms these moments into intricate works of art.

Elsa’s dialogue with the world takes shape through her paintings, an exploration of emotions and various phenomena. For her, colors are a means of conveying her message. “My mood actively interacts with colors,” she expresses, highlighting the intimate connection between her emotions and the hues on her canvas.

A cursory glance at Elsa’s art may reveal two distinct poles, each defined by its color palette and inner essence. However, beneath these stylistic variations lies a unifying signature, an expression of her mindset. The interplay of rich color palettes and bold strokes, both horizontal and vertical, breathe life into her figurative works. These works often feature figures, subtly detailed yet boldly emphasized, against a backdrop of soft color transitions. The characters, locally colored and luminous, create a sense of drama, sarcasm, or ethereal beauty, highlighting various facets of Elsa’s artistic spectrum.

Stepping into the realm of Elsa’s abstract style, viewers are transported to a different dimension. Here, color dominates the canvas, weaving a rich tapestry that conveys dynamics, movement, and rotation. Elsa’s adept technical maneuvers, coupled with her free and creative thinking, address the artistic challenges of abstraction with finesse.

Elsa’s artistic journey is a testament to her quest for harmony, her commitment to expression, and her fearless exploration of the myriad facets of art. Through her works, she invites us to share in her emotional landscapes and to witness the ever-evolving dance between her inner self and the world that surrounds her.

 Born and raised in Yerevan, Aram Parunakyan showed interest in painting at a very young age. After majoring in design at Panos Terlemezian Yerevan State College of Arts and then switching to painting at the Yerevan Academy of Fine Arts, Aram embarked on his journey as a professional artist. 

A hyper realist, Aram evolved his painting style after experimenting with all the styles taught in the Academy. Ironically, details initially were irritating to him and he was surprised by painters who could spend hours with their rigger paint brush. It took him a single try to realize that the more time he spent on the details, the more gripping it became to continue. And the result that extraordinarily resembled reality brought him great satisfaction.  

Oil is the medium giving Aram the freedom to do more. With its unique characteristics, it helps the artist work on the details with more ease. “I see a lot of potential in oil paints and I can feel them. There is no other medium that I wish to use now,” says Aram.

Aram derives inspiration from his state of mind. “ I create a state of mind, then I challenge myself. If I meet the challenges, I continue, otherwise I lose my interest,” he explains. Therefore, constant improvement in his style and technique is an inseparable part of his works. In his soon-to-be-displayed series, he has acquired a new technique in using oil. The medium is unrecognizable in these series because of the effects that the painter has produced while painting scenes through wet windows on rainy days. 

Machinery has always been the main theme of his works. It started with the challenge of obtaining the volume and reproducing the body texture of the cars on the canvas. Then he realized cars were suitable mediums to communicate his messages. In his series, North South, the machinery addresses an issue surrounding infrastructure projects in Armenia.

Held at Latitude Art Space in June 2022, North South  was the first solo exhibition of Aram Parunakyan. The series illustrated different scenes from the North South Highway Project in Armenia. Understanding the importance of the project, Aram decided to document his observations. “I started working on this series in 2019. Back then, the road had already been under construction for ten years. Yet, not much was done despite the extensive amount of funds directed to the project.” says Aram. He believes that an issue like this is more of a hindrance than a help to the development of society, therefore, essential to be addressed.  

Aram Parunakyan wishes to continue working in Armenia. “ Every Armenian artist has to feel confident in their own country and never feel the need to establish themselves as an artist anywhere else. There should be more foundations such as the Yerevan Biennial Art Foundation providing artists with the opportunity to present their works on national and international platforms,” says Aram.

Interviewed by Annie Nazari  

A Visionary Artist Pushing Boundaries

Garegin Harutyunyan is a multifaceted artist whose work transcends traditional boundaries, blending classical painting with contemporary currents. His art effortlessly bridges the gap between pop art and archaic stylistics, creating a captivating fusion that captivates the viewer.

In exploring Harutyunyan’s oeuvre, one can discern elements of surrealism, which adds a layer of allure to his historical perspective on painting. His unique approach extends to the realm of street art, a genre with roots dating back to ancient times when cavemen depicted their daily lives, unknowingly contributing to the world of art. In the modern era, street art has become an integral part of our lives, and Harutyunyan’s work is at its forefront.

One striking example of his prowess is his portrait of Jim Morrison, a masterpiece that embodies the multidimensional nature of art. It expertly weaves together elements of graffiti, antique portraiture, pop art, and street art, offering a comprehensive reflection of contemporary painting.

An artist of Garegin’s caliber possesses a sense of completeness, allowing them to navigate the intricate web of distinct genres and create a unique, exclusive art form. Harutyunyan exemplifies this trait, seamlessly infusing the simplicity of abstract with the depth of realism while bringing contemporary street art onto the canvas. In doing so, he infuses it with both practicality and a stylistic profile characterized by its decorative charm.

Harutyunyan’s work is marked by its artistic mastery, deftly referencing multiple meanings and presenting a harmonious blend of familiar styles, all while maintaining his distinct artistic voice.

The “Connection” exhibition encapsulates all of these facets, offering a glimpse into the intersection of art perfection. It is an opportunity not only to experience the extraordinary but also to venture into uncharted territories of the mind.

Garegin Harutyunyan is more than an artist; he is a visionary whose passion for creativity has driven him from an early age. His journey from a young artist in an art school to the vibrant art scene of St. Petersburg has shaped his unique perspective on the world. For Garegin, creating art is as essential as breathing, and his preferred mediums, including pop art and modern art, reflect his artistic heart.

In his own words, “I live as I like. There is something important for me, which is also key for me in life. It is that you just have to work.”

Garegin Harutyunyan’s art is a testament to his dedication and his unyielding commitment to pushing the boundaries of creativity. It is a journey worth exploring, as he continues to redefine the possibilities of contemporary art.

Discovering Beauty: The Artistic Odyssey of Karine Dulyan

Karine Dulyan, professionally known as KARISHOK, is an accomplished contemporary artist based in the vibrant cities of Yerevan and California. Her artistic journey is a reflection of her diverse experiences as an architect, urbanist, and passionate painter. Known for her captivating cityscapes and evocative abstract landscapes, Karine’s art seamlessly weaves together her architectural precision with the boundless creativity of her imagination.

Her artistic pursuit took a decisive turn in 2020 when she chose to dedicate herself entirely to the world of painting, a choice that reignited the profound joy reminiscent of her childhood. Karine’s artistry extends across various mediums including watercolor, acrylic, ink, and mixed techniques, allowing her to create visually diverse and emotionally resonant artworks that leave a lasting impression on viewers.

Having graduated from the Yerevan State University of Architecture and Construction, Karine further honed her skills during her time in Spain, earning a Master’s Degree in Arts and New Technologies from the European University of Madrid and specializing in Urban Design from Madrid Polytechnic University. Her academic background, coupled with her exposure to various art studios and workshops in Armenia, has contributed to the rich and nuanced essence that defines her art.

Karine’s profound ability to perceive the inherent beauty in the world around her serves as the cornerstone of her artistic philosophy, enabling her to create pieces that not only captivate the eye but also evoke a sense of joy and serenity within the viewer. Through her brand, KARISHOK, art enthusiasts can explore an array of signed art prints, postcards, and coasters, each bearing the distinctive mark of her artistic vision.

Notable for her significant contributions to the art world, Karine has showcased her works in prestigious solo and group exhibitions, both nationally and internationally. Her recent solo exhibitions include “Make Love Not War” at the National Parliamentary Library of Georgia, Tbilisi, and “Notes from Sun City” at the Layers Gallery in Pasadena, California. Karine’s artworks have also graced the walls of renowned institutions such as the St. Andrew Armenian Apostolic Church in Cupertino, California, and the Union of Artists of Armenia in Yerevan, Armenia.

As a passionate advocate for philanthropy, Karine has actively participated in fundraisers and charitable events, leveraging her art to support causes close to her heart. Her unwavering commitment to her craft, coupled with her genuine desire to spread joy through art, continues to solidify her position as a distinguished figure in the contemporary art landscape.

Bridging Worlds Through Art

Garo Ardaz, born to Lebanese-Armenian parents, is an artist whose journey from Beirut to Fresno and finally to Yerevan embodies a rich tapestry of cultural influences and a profound dedication to artistic expression. Initially honing his skills as a jeweler in the bustling souks of Beirut, Garo intricately wove stories into precious metals and gemstones, demonstrating his meticulous attention to detail.

However, the call of exploration beckoned, propelling Garo towards the realms of business and marketing, where he embarked on a professional odyssey in the dynamic landscape of international commerce. Despite his corporate endeavors, Garo’s artistic spirit remained unwavering, finding solace in the fusion of words and visuals in his daily work, bridging the gap between business and art.

In the quiet interludes beyond boardroom engagements, Garo found solace in the world of vibrant colors and forms, wielding his paintbrush to express the emotions, dreams, and tales that dwelled deep within. Each stroke on his canvas became an extension of his soul, transcending the confines of conventional communication and revealing the depths of his artistic soul.

The Artistic Odyssey: Marina Hagopian’s Journey of Insignificance and Significance

Marina Hagopian is an accomplished artist with a diverse and inspiring journey through the world of art. Her artistic pursuits began in Syria at the Applied Art Institute, where she specialized in sculpting. Her passion for art led her to further her education by attending classes at the Cultural Foundation of Abu Dhabi, where she continued to refine her skills.

Marina’s dedication to her craft culminated in her graduation from the prestigious Academy of Fine Arts in Armenia, marking a significant milestone in her artistic journey. It was during her formative years that Marina discovered her unique source of inspiration.

What sets Marina’s work apart is her deep appreciation for the profound contrast between her own small existence in the vast universe and the intricate balance of importance and insignificance in the grand tapestry of creation. This philosophical perspective serves as the foundation of her artistry.

In her work, Marina often explores the subtle nuances of being unnoticed or seemingly simple, mirroring her own experience in the world. Her pieces convey the awe-inspiring sensation she feels when standing before the ocean, emphasizing the profound sense of insignificance and humility that such moments can evoke. This concept is beautifully captured in her art, where the elements she creates are deliberately small in comparison to their backgrounds, highlighting the contrast and underlying message.

Marina is a versatile artist who thrives on experimenting with a wide range of materials. While she is open to exploring any medium that piques her interest, she has a particular affinity for clay and paper. Clay, in her skilled hands, transforms into bronze, and the journey from the initial creation to the final masterpiece is a captivating and enjoyable process. Paper, with its remarkable flexibility, offers Marina a canvas for both painting and sculpture, allowing her to express her artistic vision in diverse and captivating ways.

Marina Hagopian’s art is a testament to her unique perspective on existence and her profound ability to translate those feelings into captivating and thought-provoking creations. Her work serves as a reminder of the beauty found in the intricate balance between the vastness of the universe and the profound significance of every individual element within it.

Navigating Contradictions and Unveiling Boundless Expressions in Contemporary Art

Samvel Saghatelian, known by his artistic pseudonym Sam Saga, traces his artistic journey back to the momentous era of the Soviet Union’s collapse in 1991. Born in Soviet Armenia in 1958, Saghatelian’s path toward contemporary art took an unexpected turn following a debilitating car accident that rendered his dominant hand unusable. Embracing adversity as an opportunity, he ventured into the realm of left-handed drawing, a pivotal juncture that ignited an array of innovative directions in painting and mixed media.

Over the past two decades, Saghatelian has fearlessly delved into a multitude of styles, mediums, and thematic content. His earlier works reflect the interplay between the quest for an authentic Armenian identity in the wake of independence and a simultaneous desire to challenge its historical legacy. “Contradictions are inseparable from human existence. They are ubiquitous: in my nature, in my upbringing, and in the society I inhabit,” he asserts.

In 2001, Saghatelian represented the Armenian pavilion at the 49th Venice Biennale in Italy, showcasing his profound artistic vision on the global stage. Following this, a Fellowship for ArtsLink/Vermont Studio Center in Vermont, USA, provided him with the opportunity for his inaugural solo exhibition, solidifying his presence within the international art community. Fascinated by the vibrant art scene in the United States, Sam Saga-Saghatelian eventually relocated to Los Angeles.

During his time in Los Angeles, Saghatelian co-founded the influential Black Maria Gallery alongside his wife, contributing significantly to the city’s dynamic art landscape. His works have graced numerous esteemed galleries such as Coagula Curatorial, La Luz de Jesus gallery, Aqua Art Miami 2009, Bruce Lurie Gallery, Bleicher Gallery, LA Art show, Garboushian gallery, Centro Arti Visive “Pescheria” in Italy, and more. Additionally, his collaborations with renowned entities like V Moda, Will I Am production, and HUSTLER magazine underscore his versatile and boundary-pushing artistic ethos.

Despite his global engagements, Saghatelian maintains a close connection to his Armenian roots, actively participating in the country’s art scene through solo and group exhibitions. Notably, his exhibition “Borderline Reality” at the Armavir Penitentiary Institution in 2014, commemorating Human Rights Day, garnered support from the OSCE office in Yerevan, involving inmates from three different facilities.

Since 2015, Saghatelian has resided in Armenia, wholeheartedly immersing himself in the country’s artistic narrative while remaining attuned to the region’s ever-evolving political landscape. His perspective on the tumultuous political climate resonates in his work, infusing it with a sense of urgency and introspection, as he grapples with the complexities of a changing world.

Revelations of Freedom and Love Through Abstract Expressions

Svetlana Krylova, known to the artistic world as Sveta Gas, is a luminary in the realm of abstract art, deftly capturing the elusive essence of freedom and love on her canvases.

Beyond the confines of a traditional artist, I am a certified art therapist, infusing my work with a profound understanding of the human psyche and the healing power of artistic expression. A graduate from the esteemed Faculty of Arts at Moscow State University, my academic forays into the intricacies of semiotics and general art theory served as the gateway to a mesmerizing exploration of novel forms of fine painting and self-expression.

Each stroke of my brush encapsulates unbridled freedom, reflecting the unrestrained flow of inner thoughts, emotions, and aspirations that resonate within every individual.

My art serves as a testament to the beauty of the creative process, an intricate dance that unites the artist with the canvas, interweaving the cosmic energies of the universe with the profound essence of the human spirit. It is a fervent celebration of liberation, a symphony of love, and a visual odyssey that beckons viewers on an eternal voyage of self-discovery and perpetual artistic evolution.