Exhibition of works by renowned Lithuanian artist Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis opens at YSU

A temporary exhibition of works by Lithuanian painter, writer, and composer Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis opened at Yerevan State University, in honor of the 150th anniversary of his birth. This exhibition has been organized in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Lithuania in Armenia.

Most of Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis's works are housed in the Čiurlionis Art Museum in Kaunas, Lithuania. At YSU, several of his most renowned paintings are currently exhibited in the university library.

Alexander Markarov, Head of YSU International Cooperation Office, introduced the Lithuanian artist, noting that Čiurlionis was born in 1875 and lived only 36 years.

"Although Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis had a brief life, his work established new standards, new visions, and new understandings. He became a herald of the Lithuanian national revival. Despite being Lithuanian, he did not speak Lithuanian fluently, yet his creative output inspired people to recognize and understand Lithuania," Markarov emphasized. He also highlighted that Čiurlionis, like many geniuses, exhibited talent across multiple fields—being the author of the first Lithuanian symphonic works and a gifted painter.

Andrius Pulokas, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Lithuania to Armenia, noted that the series of events commemorating the 150th anniversary of the renowned artist began earlier this year. "For Lithuanians, Čiurlionis is the foremost composer and painter. Organizing this modest exhibition at YSU is truly an excellent initiative. Of the 300 paintings by Čiurlionis, only a small portion is displayed here, but these are among the very best," the ambassador said, describing Čiurlionis’ works as "magical" in a single word.

Olga Arzumanyan, organizer of the exhibition and lecturer of Lithuanian at YSU, added that philosophical themes occupy a significant place throughout Čiurlionis’ oeuvre—exploring humanity as a part of the universe and the relationship between man and the Divine. "Many of his works are dedicated to these themes, with notable examples including the series 'Zodiac Signs,' 'The Creation of the World,' and the piece titled 'Rex,'" Olga Arzumanyan said.

According to Olga Arzumanyan, visitors to the exhibition will discover stylistic and thematic parallels between Čiurlionis’ work and that of the renowned Armenian painter Martiros Saryan.

The exhibition will remain open until October 8.