Motherhood and Beauty Day at YSU celebrates women's creativity and art

Motherhood and Beauty Day serves as yet another opportunity to recognize the vital role of women, their contributions, and their creative potential in both educational and social life.

YSU Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan emphasized the importance of women's participation and creative work in the fields of art and science, stating: "This event is significant because it allows our female employees to be seen not only in their official roles but also as creative individuals. The works on display are more than artistic pieces—they reflect the personalities who, alongside their professional duties, shape the cultural environment of the university. We prioritize recognizing and valuing the contribution of every employee, regardless of their position or social role, and fostering an environment where individuals can fully express themselves through their skills, ideas, and creativity."

As part of the celebration, an exhibition of creative works by YSU female employees showcased a variety of art forms, including photography, painting, miniatures, and handicrafts. The exhibition offered a chance to explore the female employees' creativity and recognize their contributions to cultural life.

Angela Ayriyants, an administrative specialist at the Faculty of Geography and Geology who has worked at the university for nearly 30 years, displayed her amateur photographs taken at different times and locations. The images capture the lives of animals, birds, and flowers, distinguished by the delicate attention Angela brings to each detail, making every photograph vivid and memorable. Her work was highly praised by both colleagues and visitors.

Her friend, Armine Mkrtchyan, a lecturer at the Chair of Cartography and Geomorphology of the same faculty, noted that when they walk together, Angela notices even the smallest insects hidden in the grass—details that usually go unnoticed by passersby.

"Friends often told me I could have a solo exhibition, but I rarely take risks. When I received the invitation to participate in this exhibition with my own works, I realized this was the right opportunity," Angela said. She added that she has not considered turning her photography into a business; she simply enjoys capturing life beyond her university work.

Anna Virabyan, a senior accountant in the YSU Accounting Department, has pursued embroidery and crochet since the age of 17. She sometimes gifts her creations to friends or uses them to decorate everyday items.

"I do not plan patterns in advance; they usually 'emerge' during the process or are selected from the internet depending on my mood," Anna said. Her works often include crocheted collars designed to be worn with shirts. These delicate patterns pair well with both white and colorful clothing.

During the event, attendees' attention was drawn to The Call of the Horizon, a painting by senior inspector Araks Gabrielyan from the Educational Process Support Department. Created with acrylic and plaster, the piece features striking color and textural effects that make it particularly memorable. 

"For me, The Call of the Horizon symbolizes the start of a new journey—a new life, new activities, and a path opening toward the future. I believe everyone interprets it in their own way," said Araks, who is also the author of several thematic paintings.

Anahit Khlopuzyan, an administrative specialist at the Pedagogy and Education Development Center, presented a series of miniatures on the theme of motherhood. While the works primarily depict the Virgin Mary, the exhibition also included miniatures portraying Christ and Gregory of Narek, each carrying a distinct message.

"Christ said that if you follow Him, darkness will turn into light. In the painting, as He moves, black transforms into gold—symbolizing the retreat of darkness and the emergence of light," Anahit explained, adding that the central message of her miniatures is love—love in everything.

Hripsime Hakobyan, an administrative specialist at the Faculty of Law, displayed beaded necklaces—unique, colorful pieces that complement a variety of women's outfits. Wearing a cardigan she had made herself, she explained that creating art often helps her calm down and express emotions when she feels upset. 

One of the most memorable aspects of the event, organized by the YSU Human Resources Department, was a collaborative creative activity. Participants worked together to assemble an image of the university's main building using illustrated tiles arranged on tables. The completed piece will be permanently installed at the university, serving as a lasting symbol of the day's beauty and the unity of the university community.