Eduard Isabekyan Gallery occupies a special place in the cultural life of Armenia, being not only a center for demonstrating contemporary art works, but also a powerful impetus for the development of local and international art. Founded in 2013, the gallery has quickly established itself as a platform for talented artists, a place for dialogue between cultures, and a source of inspiration for art lovers. This cultural center combines exhibition spaces, educational programs, art objects, and initiatives that contribute to the development and popularization art.
History of creation and concept
The gallery, which houses a permanent exhibition of 28 paintings donated to the city by the artist’s family, is located in a two-story concrete building designed in the late 1970s by architects Jim Torossian and Gevorg Aramyan. The idea for the Gallery came to the famous Armenian collector and philanthropist Eduard Isabekyan in 2004, who has always been a passionate supporter of the development of contemporary art. His goal was to create a space where young artists and recognized masters could present their works to a wider public, as well as to stimulate cultural exchange and the integration of Armenian art into the global context.
The gallery is located in the center of Yerevan at 7a Mashtots Avenue, in one of the sections of the HayAr cultural center , in a building that combines modern architectural solutions with historical elements, symbolizing a bridge between the past and the present. The interior is designed in a minimalist style to maximize the exhibits and create a comfortable atmosphere for visitors.
Main directions and exhibitions
The exhibition occupies two floors. The first floor often hosts temporary exhibitions dedicated to individual aspects of the artist’s work. Thus, the gallery launched a series of exhibitions called “Eduard Isabekyan and His Students”, dedicated to Isabekyan’s 60-year teaching activity. Large compositional-thematic paintings are located in the upper, ring-shaped hall. In addition to the main collection, 4 works from the National Art Gallery’s storerooms and private collections are also presented. The gallery focuses on contemporary art, including painting, sculpture, installations, video art and multimedia projects. Particular attention is paid to the works of Armenian authors, as well as international artists, which makes it a platform for intercultural dialogue.
Over the years, the gallery has held many significant exhibitions, including:
- “Young Armenian Art” is a platform for new talents, where the works of young artists supported by the gallery were displayed.
- Personal exhibitions of famous Armenian masters such as Nora Gevorkyan, Grant Gevorkyan and others.
- International projects – exhibitions with the participation of artists from Russia, Europe, USA, Iran and other countries.
Important projects and initiatives
The gallery is not limited to exhibitions. It actively implements educational and cultural projects, such as master classes, lectures, round tables and festivals. One of these initiatives is the annual contemporary art festival “ArtBridge”, which brings together artists, curators and art lovers from all over the world.
Influence and role in the cultural life of Armenia
Eduard Isabekyan Gallery has played an important role in shaping the country’s contemporary art landscape. It has become a platform for dialogue between generations of artists, local and international experts, and an important center of attraction for tourists and cultural figures.
Through its activities, the gallery promotes critical thinking and aesthetic perception among a wide audience, stimulating interest in contemporary art and its diversity. It helps Armenian artists to make a name for themselves in the international arena, creating conditions for their professional growth and new opportunities.
Interesting work
One of Isabekyan’s most famous paintings is “Prominent Figures of Igdir. Funeral in Igdir”, 1984-2000. The canvas depicts 45 people, famous people of Igdir and members of the artist’s family. The features of most of the characters are made from memory, sometimes from surviving photographs.
People are standing against the backdrop of Mount Ararat and an Armenian church, behind them are two angels descending from the sky. In the foreground are three doves on a mound, symbolizing the end of earthly life. That is, three planes, three parts are presented here – heavenly, earthly and posthumous.
Conclusion
Eduard Isabekyan Gallery has become an integral part of the cultural life of Armenia, bringing together talented artists, art lovers and international professionals. Its activities contribute to strengthening the Armenian cultural heritage in a contemporary context, stimulate the development of artistic dialogue and open new horizons for local and foreign artists. It is a place where tradition and innovation, history and modernity meet, creating a unique atmosphere of creativity and inspiration.
Contacts:
+374 10 500567
