International Conference "Gurdjieff Days in Armenia" kicks off at YSU

YSU Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan emphasized that the conference serves as a vital platform for the exchange of knowledge, in-depth discussions, and the setting forth of new ideas. It provides an opportunity to strengthen mutually beneficial collaborations.

Speaking about the teachings of George Gurdjieff—an Armenian intellectual, mystic, philosopher, composer, and choreographer—the rector noted that Gurdjieff's philosophy is intended to awaken human consciousness, aiming at self-development and the expansion of awareness.

"According to Gurdjieff’s teaching, people often live in a state of 'waking sleep,' lacking a unified perception of mind and body," said Hovhannes Hovhannisyan, adding that the discovery of the "Fourth Way" by Gurdjieff provides a path for inner development and perfection. It is a way to awaken from illusion and mechanical existence, all while remaining engaged in everyday life.

"The responsibility of being awake is not only personal but also moral and universal. In this age of unconscious consumption and destruction, the conscious presence of the individual becomes an urgent necessity," the rector underlined. He also noted that Gurdjieff’s "Fourth Way" method integrates the approaches of fakirs, monks, yogis, and Christians.

Hovhannes Hovhannisyan further emphasized that Gurdjieff elaborated on the influence of music and movement on the human body, mind, and emotions, as well as the importance of mutual support along the path of self-perfection.

"I hope this conference will serve not only as a platform for intellectual exchange, but also for inspiration, discussion, and networking—and that it will open new horizons for each of us," he concluded.

Director of YSU Institute for Armenian Studies, Vahram Petrosyan, welcomed the speakers and attendees, noting that each presentation brings a unique perspective: "Every great idea is born from a small thought, and today we are surrounded by ideas aimed at making the world a better place."

Reflecting on George Gurdjieff as both a physical and intellectual traveler, Vahram Petrosyan noted that Gurdjieff was in pursuit of truth and harmony: "Gurdjieff’s ideas remain alive because they lead us to personal experience. They challenge us to observe ourselves sincerely and awaken to a deep sense of responsibility—toward ourselves, society, and the world."

Dr. Shushan Karapetyan, Director of the USC Dornsife Institute of Armenian Studies, joined the conference virtually and welcomed the guests. She noted that their institute explores contemporary realities in Armenia, not confined by borders, but attentive to the many geographies, communities, and cultural encounters that shape Armenian life today: "We study not only politics, history, and language, but also art, music, philosophy, and the diverse ways these realities are lived and interpreted across the globe. Therefore, it is it is of great significance for us to co-sponsor this gathering devoted to G.I. Gurdjieff—a figure whose life and work are inseparable from the cultural, spiritual, and intellectual currents of this region, and whose impact extends far beyond it."

Shushan Karapetyan stressed that Gurdjieff challenges humanity to think interdisciplinarily—connecting music with mysticism, philosophy with science, and literature with lived experience.

Professor Peter Cowe, from UCLA Narekatsi Chair in Armenian Studies, recalled his first visit to Armenia during the 1980–1981 academic year as part of his postgraduate studies. At the time, his research focused primarily on Mesrop Mashtots and the invention of the Armenian alphabet. 

"I remember the strict warnings we received from British diplomats about how harsh Soviet bureaucrats could be toward foreigners, and about the numerous restrictions in place. However, upon meeting the head of my department at YSU, I was encouraged to visit as many places as possible and to gain the fullest experience as an Armenian studies scholar. I see that same warm hospitality today during this conference," he said, adding that his current visit was inspired by the desire to study the teachings of another prominent Armenian figure—George Gurdjieff.

"Gurdjieff’s fame and the results of his work have reached and influenced diverse peoples across the world. His philosophical and creative contributions have been deeply appreciated abroad," he emphasized.

On the first day of the international conference, scholars from YSU, various Armenian universities, and Gurdjieff’s School presented papers. Participants also included representatives from international institutions such as the Gurdjieff Foundation of New York, the University of Sydney, the Gurdjieff Foundation in Greece, and the Russian Academy of Sciences.

The conference will continue on September 19 at YSU, beginning with the opening of an exhibition of Gurdjieff’s publications. The day’s program will include presentations by scholars from the Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography of the Armenian National Academy of Sciences, the Free University of Berlin, the Georgian Centre for Arts Research, the Gurdjieff Foundation in London, Yerevan Komitas State Conservatory, and the Institute of Arts of the NAS RA.

The four-day event, which began on September 17, will conclude on September 20 in Gyumri.