‘Armenia in Tenerife’ Transforms the Casino Room into a Cultural Bridge between the Caucasus and the Canaries
A New Cultural Initiative
Armenia in Tenerife is the latest venture in a series dedicated to showcasing the culture of this nation. The exhibition is hosted at the Túnel del Arte Conference and Art Room, located within the Mencey Hotel in Santa Cruz. José Marrón, the Councillor for Public Companies at the Cabildo (Tenerife Casinos), officially opened the exhibition, which will run throughout October and November. The initiative features activities focused on Armenian art, music, cinema, history, and gastronomy, celebrating the rich heritage of this country situated in the Caucasus region.
Opening Ceremony
Marrón was accompanied by José Carlos Acha, the Third Vice President of the Cabildo and Councillor for Culture, Sports and Museums, as well as Miso Paradelo, the General Director of External Action and Cooperation for the Government of the Canary Islands. The event was also attended by civil and military authorities and members of the accredited Consular Body in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. In his address, Marrón highlighted how this exhibition encapsulates Armenian culture and its extensive heritage, now on display at the Túnel del Arte.
A Cultural Bridge
Miso Paradelo remarked that “the colours of Armenia” embody art, culture, and history, creating a connection between the Caucasus and the Canary Islands. The exhibition curator, David Hovhannisyan, stated, “With this display, we aim to introduce Armenia to the Canary Islands through a unique cultural platform.”
Enhancing Cultural Engagement
The event concluded with remarks from José Carlos Acha, who expressed gratitude to José Marrón for this new exhibition, which features the most significant cultural elements from Armenia. He described it as “an opportunity that elevates this venue as a cultural epicentre within Tenerife, welcoming both culture and society.”
Showcasing Armenian Art
The exhibition presents 29 works from 15 Armenian artists, including seven key figures from classical Armenian culture and art. The paintings, created during the 20th and 21st centuries, offer a visual journey through various stages of Armenia’s artistic identity. This collection forms part of a private family collection, gathered with deep reverence for the country’s cultural legacy.
Featured Artists
Highlighted artists include Manuk Abeghyan, Arto Chakmakchyan, Shmavon Shmavonyan, Karen Smbatyan, Samvel Harutyunyan, Arev Petrosyan, Bogdan Hovhannisyan, Alexandr Grigoryan, and Dr. Levon Harutyunyan, among others of significant renown. Hovhannisyan, the exhibition curator and artistic director for the month of Armenia in Tenerife, emphasized their importance.
From 16 October to 16 November, Tenerife will serve as the stage for a unique exploration of Armenian culture. The exhibition Armenia in Colors assembles works from distinguished artists that demonstrate the richness and diversity of this ancient legacy.
Upcoming Events
On Thursday, 23 October at 18:30, there will be a discussion addressing the country in an open dialogue format. The day will also feature tastings of Armenian wine and brandy. Looking ahead to November, the opening of Samvel Harutyunyan’s exhibition is scheduled for Thursday, 20 November at 18:30. Harutyunyan is a renowned painter known for his ability to convey the cultural essence of Armenia through color and form. Finally, on Thursday, 4 December at 18:30, the cycle will conclude with a musical evening uniting traditional melodies and Armenian songs performed live—a celebratory farewell to this month of shared culture in Tenerife.
