Pavel Hambardzumyan

Museum of Fine Art

In early March 2015, I came across an announcement from the museum about an upcoming exhibition commemorating the centenary of the Armenian Genocide. The theme for the works by participating artists and sculptors would center around the genocide. I decided to create a painting for the exhibition, though it would need to be completed within a short timeframe. Reflecting on the unimaginable suffering endured by people in 1915, I managed to finish the piece in time. My painting was unframed, with a torn canvas—a deliberate artistic choice, not an oversight.

About the Painting
The piece is filled with symbolism: a white background, deep colors along the edges in square shapes, a single flower, and a torn canvas. The white canvas represents the purity and innocence of those who suffered. The deep colors in the squares symbolize the 1.5 million lives lost. Finally, the flower against the torn canvas, with red-edged tears, signifies the halting of growth and the interruption of life’s natural flourishing.

About the Museum
Founded in 1974 as a branch of the National Gallery of Armenia, the Vanadzor Museum of Fine Arts became an independent museum in 1979 with its own collection. Since then, it has been one of the most prominent cultural centers in the Lori region, housing over 1,700 works, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, and decorative arts. The museum offers visitors a look into episodes of Armenian history and invites them to explore the deep philosophical meanings within various artworks. The first floor exhibit hall is dedicated to sculpture and drawing, and a separate hall showcases works by artists from the Lori region. The museum also hosts special exhibitions.

Another Exhibitions