Presented at the HayArt Centre in Yerevan, Armenia, the retrospective exhibition "Second International Biennale Yerevan 2019 Selection" was held from August 23 to October 13, 2024. With the goal of shedding light on the works of prominent international printmakers, this exhibition came together under the direction of Sona Harutyunyan, the acting director of the HayArt Centre and the founder of both the KulturDialog Armenien organization and the Yerevan International Biennale of Fine Art Printing.
The exhibition marked the five-year anniversary of the Second International Print Biennale, Yerevan 2019, which also took place at the HayArt Center. 1,215 artists from 76 countries submitted applications to participate, with around 5,000 works made with various techniques of engraving and printmaking. As a result of the first pre-election phase, the International Jury of the the Second International Print Biennale, Yerevan 2019 selected 337 works by 214 artists from 47 countries to display in the final competition in Yerevan. The jury included chairman Prof. Dr. Mateusz Otreba (Poland), vice-chairman Margarit Lehmann (Switzerland), Herbert Mayer (Germany), Leanne Angie (U.S.) and Sona Harutyunyan (Armenia).
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"The spacious venue allows for the display of larger, prize-winning works, making it ideal for showcasing these impressive pieces," explained Harutyunyan. This year's exhibition featured 62 works by 45 artists from 16 different countries, covering nearly every major printmaking technique such as etching, lithography and mezzotint.
Visitors had the opportunity to revisit the award-winning works from the Second International Print Biennale, Yerevan 2019, which are part of the biennale's collection. Harutyunyan noted that, with five years having passed, a new generation of artists and students has emerged, many of whom missed the original event. The exhibition aimed to inspire emerging Armenian artists and enthusiasts by giving them an opportunity to experience these works firsthand. "The response was quite encouraging, with students returning multiple times to study and examine the prints," Harutyunyan said. She added that the central location drew in many passersby and tourists, increasing the exhibition's reach.
The biennale has had a significant role in fostering artistic exchange between Armenian artists and their international counterparts, opening doors for collaboration and allowing Armenian artists to connect with new partners from various countries. "Such partnerships have provided invaluable opportunities for Armenian students and emerging artists to participate in international study programs, artist exchanges and residencies abroad," Harutyunyan said. She also explained that through these experiences, students deepen their understanding of printmaking techniques, gain exposure to different artistic practices and bring new skills back to Armenia, contributing to the enrichment of the local art scene.
Reflecting on the exhibition from five years ago, Harutyunyan admitted that the range of available technologies was much more limited. However, during last year's fourth biennale, "we observed artists skillfully blending both traditional and digital techniques. The key lies in striking the right balance -- embracing modern advancements while preserving the rich heritage of traditional methods," she said. While it's essential for art to evolve alongside technology, it's equally important to stay rooted in the timeless techniques that form the foundation of printmaking.
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By now, the biennale has cemented its role in educating and motivating young Armenian artists, as it has had a significant impact on the local art scene, even though it has only been around since 2017. Armenian students now have more confidence in pursuing careers in printmaking due to the opportunities provided by such events, explained Harutyunyan. "Additionally, the biennale has helped Armenia solidify its position in the international printmaking industry," she said.
Despite the success, Harutyunyan pointed out challenges such as limited funding and the need for more team members to ensure the biennale's continued growth. However, the future remains bright, with plans to engage more volunteers and prepare the next generation to take the biennale to new heights. The biennale not only nurtures talent but also strengthens Armenia's reputation as a hub for printmaking excellence.