EXHIBITION

Armenity/Hayoutioun

THE NATIONAL PAVILION OF THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA, 05/06/2015 - 10/18/2015

The Island of San Lazzaro degli Armeni

ABOUT

In this symbolic year 2015, on the occasion of the 100th commemoration of the Armenian Genocide, the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Armenia has dedicated its pavilion to the artists of the Armenian diaspora. It will be located at the Mekhitarist Monastery on the island of San Lazzaro degli Armeni. 

The curatorial concept of armenity** implies the notion of displacement and territory, justice andreconciliation, ethos and resilience. Regardless of their place of birth, the selected artists carry within theiridentity the memory of their origins. Through their talent and willpower, these grandchildren of survivors of the Armenian Genocide—the first genocide of the 20th century—rebuilt a "transnational assembly" from the remnants of a shattered identity. Their ingrained concern for memory, justice and reconciliation skillfully transcends notions of territory, borders and geography. Whether they were born in Beirut, Lyon, Los Angeles, or Cairo and wherever they may reside, these global citizens constantly question and reinvent theirarmenity. 

Armenity is being held in a setting of special significance for the Armenian diaspora. It was on the Island of San Lazzaro, located between San Marco and the Lido and facing the Giardini of the Biennale, that in 1717 the Armenian monk Mekhitar established the Mekhitarist Order. It was here that in the early 19th century Lord Byron studied the Armenian language. Many important works of European literature and religious texts were first translated into Armenian on this scenic island. Over its 300-year history the Monastery of San Lazzaro with its gardens, former print shop, cloisters, museum and library, has helped to preserve Armenia's unique cultural heritage, much of which might otherwise have been lost. 

For More Information

Share this Exhibition: