Titled “Tribute to the Martyrs of the Armenian Genocide,” the exhibition is organized by the governing body of the gallery, under the high patronage of His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia of the Armenian Orthodox Church.

The opening was attended by Armenia’s Ambassador to Lebanon Ashot Kocharian, Member of Lebanese Parliament Hagop Pakradouni, Bourj Hammoud Mayor Antranik Meserlian, and a large number of guests and art lovers.

The opening speech was given by Lola Beuyukian, who thanked all the participating artists who, through the exhibited works, expressed their indignation and condemnation of the Armenian Genocide and its denial by Turkey.

Next, Hagop Havatian, director of the Hamazkayin Lucy Tutunjian Art Gallery and of the Hamazkayin “Vahe Setian” Printing and Publishing House, took the floor. He first thanked His Holiness Aram I for supporting the exhibition.

Havatian explained the importance of the exhibition, which lies in the fact that this year is the 95th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide – a milestone anniversary.

Regarding the works on display and the participating artists, Havatian emphasized the participation of non-Armenian artists, adding that it will lead to more opportunities for cooperation in the future.

Representing His Holiness Aram I, Bishop Kegham Khatcherian, the Prelate of the Armenian Diocese in Lebanon, said that the Catholicos greatly commends and supports this initiative and thanks its organizers for their efforts.

Bishop Khatcherian said that the participation of Armenian as well as non-Armenian artists in this exhibition is an indication of the universal nature and international scope of the Armenian Cause.

Bishop Khatcherian said that this exhibition expresses the psychological struggles and contemplations of people in condemnation of human injustices. He added that it is an opportunity for artists and visitors to share the pain of the Armenian people, and at the same time to support the just cause of the Armenians.