September 23, 2002

WASHINGTON, DC — Following a worldwide research project conducted by the Armenian National Institute (ANI) to locate Armenian artists whose work reflects on traumas stemming from the Armenian Genocide, the Legacy Project has made its virtual art exhibit a reality, with the recent introduction of “In Memory: Art of Afterward,” an international exhibition of works reflecting on loss and remembrance. The touring exhibition includes two works related to the Armenian Genocide — “Yellow Mask” by Leon Tutundjian (France/Turkey) and “Ashfall Installation” by Robert Barsamian (U.S.).

The exhibition is currently residing at the Sidney Mishkin Gallery located within the Baruch College in New York City. ANI’s research revealed the effect of the Armenian Genocide for those directly and even indirectly affected by the events.

The Legacy Project’s Web site which displays nearly 70 images created by Armenians across the globe in its Armenian Genocide section has recently been augmented to include literature written by ANI Academic Council Member Peter Balakian and author Ben H. Bagdikian.

“This new exhibition is a welcome development,” ANI Director Dr. Rouben Adalian said. “The works included in the exhibition are being shown for the first time in the context of similar events, while revealing the breadth and depth of the Armenian experience.”

“Our goal is to create of greater understanding of the enduring consequences of the historical tragedies of the 20th century. Through art, many have expressed their emotions over traumatic events such as the Armenian Genocide. We would like to encourage people to view the works either online or in person to gain a deeper perspective of the atrocities that have occurred and how the artistic community responded to them,” said Legacy Project President Clifford Chanin.

ANI project manager Dr. Dickran Kouymjian led this endeavor with the support of specialists around the world who were assigned specific aspects in the collection and documentation process. The Rockefeller Foundation supported ANI’s research initiative.

The Armenian National Institute is dedicated to the study, research, and affirmation of the Armenian Genocide. Please visit the ANI Web site: www.armenian-genocide.org.