A Look at the Tarkahnyan Sculpture and Its Opening Ceremony

On October 10, 2024, a solemn ceremony was held at the Tarkhanian Cultural Center for the unveiling of a bronze bust of renowned Armenian architect Artur Tarkhanyan. Artur Tarkhanyan (1932–2006) is considered one of the key figures in the development of Armenian modernist architecture. His innovative ideas and progressive vision had a significant impact not only on Armenian but also on international architecture, becoming a constant source of inspiration for new generations. He contributed to the design of several landmark structures, including the Youth Palace, Zvartnots Airport, the Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex, the Karen Demirchyan Sports and Concert Complex, among others. Throughout his career, Tarkhanyan authored numerous urban planning projects, public buildings, and monuments.

The bronze bust of Tarkhanyan was gifted to the center by his close friend and long-time collaborator, internationally acclaimed sculptor Mkrtich Mazmanian. Tarkhanyan and Mazmanian worked together on several significant projects, such as the Youth Palace, Zvartnots Airport, and the Karen Demirchyan Sports and Concert Complex. Drawing on his memories and photographs of Tarkhanyan, Mazmanian was able to create a portrait that fully conveys the great architect’s creative spirit, personality, and free-thinking nature. The idea for the bust also belonged to the sculptor.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by numerous officials, architects, artists, and prominent public figures. Among the guests were: David Grigoryan, First Deputy Chairman of the Urban Development Committee of Armenia; Levon Hovhannisyan, Deputy Mayor of Yerevan; members of the Karen Demirchyan family; Harutyun Khachatryan, founder of the “Golden Apricot” film festival; Dr. Artyom Kushkyan, founder of “Erebouni” Medical Center and public figure; Narine Mamikonyan, General Director of “Nairi” Medical Center; Armen Ter-Kureghyan, founder of the American University of Armenia; Anahit Ordian, assistant to the Vice President of the American University; Andranik Sedoyan, Director of “Yerevannakhagits” Institute; Aleksandr Badalyan, President of the Chamber of Architects of Armenia; Grigor Azizyan, Director of “Haynakhagits” Institute; sculptor Mkrtich Mazmanian; architects Ashot Aleksanyan and Sashur Kalashyan, along with other renowned architects and members of the Chamber of Architects’ council.

Prior to the unveiling, the Tarkhanyan Cultural Center hosted a session of the Coordinating Council of the International Union of Architects’ Associations (UIAA), during which the new president of the organization was elected—Aleksandr Badalyan, President of the Chamber of Architects of Armenia. The forum’s participants, including the heads of architectural chambers from 14 countries, also attended the ceremony.

The pedestal of the bust was designed by Artur Tarkhanyan’s daughter, Anahit Tarkhanyan, in collaboration with architect Armine Ghazaryan from the “A3” architectural firm.

After the unveiling, guests toured the Tarkhanyan Cultural Center, exploring the legacy of the architect. They discussed the significance and impact of his work on Armenian architecture. The evening continued with the sounds of contemporary music, creating a warm and memorable atmosphere.

This event became not only a significant tribute but also a platform to highlight Artur Tarkhanyan’s role in the history of Armenian modernism.