In the interview with Aravot.am, painter Haghtanak Shahumyan expressed uncertainty that the artists did not get an order to work on the theme of the 100th anniversary of the Genocide and generally, people of the art are almost not involved in the Commission of the events-list. “I do not have much contact with the Union of Artists, but a few days ago, I called the Union and wanted to know whether there will be an exhibition about the Genocide centennial. The secretary of the Union did not give an exhaustive answer, saying that something like that will be conducted in April, but the day is unknown. But, the people should have known ahead of the time, encourage the artists by giving orders and telling to create on this theme … Well, it is clear that we have some things from old days, but who should think of today?” said the artist annoyed.
According to him, in 1965, when Armenia was still a part of the Soviet Union and the theme of genocide was just talked about, a wonderful exhibition was organized, while today everything is neglected. “Everything should be done in time on pertaining to the theme of the centennial to present to the world with dignity, not to speak about that the exhibition should have made a tour around the world and come back in April to be displayed here. We are asleep, we talk more about our national problems than do. For example, I personally have some works on the theme of Genocide, which I would like to present, such as “Armenia”, “Humanity tree of life”, also one triptych made specifically for this purpose. I do not know whether they will be displayed in the framework of this events-list, so far no one is saying anything, or more precisely, they are saying but formally and allegedly from nationalism.”
Gohar HAKOBYAN
Photo from Haghtanak Shahumyan’s Facebook page
