The opening speech was delivered by Ms. Mary Tcholoyan, who presented the bios of the participating artists. On behalf of the Art Gallery’s Committee, Tcholoyan thanked Dr. Joseph Torbey and Credit Libanais Bank for always supporting cultural initiatives in Lebanon, including Hamazkayin’s projects.

Afterwards, on behalf of the participating painters, Mr. Charles Khoury gave a speech expressing their appreciation. He said that, as an artist, he had taken his first steps at Hamazkayin’s Toros Roslin Fine Arts Academy, and he remains forever grateful to Hamazkayin for this. Khoury also praised the mission and activities of the Hamazkayin Lucy Tutunjian Art Gallery.

Next, Mr. Hagop Havatian, director of the Hamazkayin Lucy Tutunjian Art Gallery, presented a plaque to Dr. Torbey as an expression of the Art Gallery’s gratitude for supporting the collective exhibition.

In his speech, Dr. Torbey talked about the importance of painting. He also noted that the relations of himself and of Credit Libanais with the Lebanese-Armenian community have deep roots. He praised the important role of the Armenian community in Lebanon, adding that it is one of the country’s main communities, which has contributed greatly to the country. At the end of his speech, Dr. Torbey wished the participating artists and the Art Gallery continuous success, and expressed his appreciation for being invited to support the event.