A surge of artistic activity among Armenians also seems to be changing the game and tilting the scales of power and decision-making in favor of the artist’s best interests.  Established artists, even those once entrepreneurial are faced with new challenges.  Where a few individuals had the means to exploit artists of limited access is becoming a thing of the past. Artists are empowered and better informed, on their way, I think, to even more self-sufficiency and less dependence on the ‘big brothers’ of the internal industry.

Over the years, (and perhaps always) we have become complacent with a culture of business that is counterproductive and succeeds only those who are most destructive and not always the most talented artistically.  Intimidation tactics and unethical conduct have dominated the scene in all its aspects. As artists speak-up and pro-actively cause change the current status-quo will become unacceptable. 

Also contributing to the shift is an overall movement toward a new perspective of what it means to be Armenian and an artist. As boundaries of cultural identity dissipate, however slowly, new collaborations are free to occur.  The outcome of a more united Armenian identity is movement in a positive direction for all, and we all have the potential to perpetuate it.  In terms of Armenian Artists Network’s contribution, our most active networks are updated and listed HERE. 

I do want to share some information to those using social networking sites. It is common knowledge to be cautious of who we give information to online and who we accept as ‘friends’. Our network, myself and several other artists included, have fallen victim to fake or fraudulent profiles. Beware of ‘wolf in sheep’s clothing’ as you interact with individuals.  The attackers have disguised with false identities, or use other’s identities as friendly characters.  Mostly directed by one single voice impersonating several very different personalities (even those of other website administrators) to intimidate and negatively influence and cause distress to just about anyone.

In the past few months I temporarily put on hold our Featured Artists and Exclusive Interviews activity in order to protect our artists from such harassment.  The assaults did not however stop with on-line ‘stalking’ or insults; my personal boundaries were crosses long ago, including interference with my family and personal life. Thanks to support from friends, influential voices, and non-arts organizations the matter is being handled and will be brought to an end.

The art itself is the ultimate victim in such situations however, and the damage caused to the culture that gives way to a unique voice Armenian artists contribute to the world is put at risk. It is our responsibility to put an end to such destructive behavior and hold individuals we have allowed to carry on this way responsible for their actions.

That said, AAN will continue to bring artists and arts professionals from around the world together. I am excited to see what is created by talented Armenians this year and the years to come. There is always something new brewing, new ideas in the work at AAN.  Stay in touch with us; connect with our groups and networks. Contact AAN at admin@armenianartistsnetwork.org for more information.

Thank you always for you support!

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We have a very special chance to work with the Society for Orphaned Armenian Relief (SOAR), Inc. to raise funds for the orphanages in Armenia. AAN is collecting art items for auction (CDs, books, DVDs, paintings, prints, sculptures, Jewelery, tickets, services, etc). We hope to collect at least 25 works from our artists.  Several individuals, including myself, have already committed to a donation, but we still have a way to go.  Please think about what you can contribute and contact the National SOAR President, George S. Yacoubian, Jr., for details at george.yacoubian@gmail.com.  More information about the organization can be found at www.soar-us.org. I was very moved by the work this group does for Armenian orphans, and I hope that you will as well.

A letter from Dr. Yacoubian:

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by Founder-Director Sarine Balian

It was only a few years ago the Armenian culture was noted to be experiencing a renaissance of sorts, years following a dark and inhibited cultural history.  A new generation of artists were emerging, intermingling and redefining the definition of Armenian art.  Today, it is clear there is an abundance of creative and artistic activity among us, globally.

In 2004 I found myself imbedded in the small yet active Armenian community in San Francisco, organizing and participating in local activities.  However, as an artist, or emerging artist, I sought my peers with very little success. 

I thought to start a network of some kind for Armenian artists. I shared my idea with Torange Yeghiazarian of Golden Thread Productions soon after, I remember, in a café in North Beach, we talked.  With a vague idea and no resources I wasn’t sure where or how to start such an organization.  She suggested an on-line list-serve. (This was before the social networking site explosion) And so it was. Armenian Artists Network YahooGroups was created a few days later came in to existence.

Five years later, I am incredibly proud of where AAN is today, and where we are headed.  Through our MySpace account and facebook group we reach over 500 Armenian artists and arts professionals around the world.  From Australia to Morocco, France to Los Angeles, Armenia to Argentina…to name a few hubs.  We reach artists of every discipline and style, young emerging artists, career artists and those who have mastered their craft.  Having started with a handful of us a few years ago we have made great advancement and progress.

We are now continuing our consistent and steady growth as always. With this site the possibilities are endless.  And I encourage you all to participate and to expand the network.  As informal and social circles of artists have always existed, consider AAN a grand and virtual circle of Armenian artists.  I understand how comfortable it is to stay within out safe, established, often pre-determined professional structures. I do however encourage (myself included) to reach beyond them and allow ourselves to be uncomfortable, risk rejection, and be willing to learn and to teach.

Something I noticed about the vast yet intricate population of ours is that each of us brings a perspective to the large Armenian identity table that makes our reality complete.  One Armenian’s experience in one sub-group may answer questions the rest of us cannot and vice versa.  I hope that we all can examine those ideas we never questioned, and set aside the fears we never admit to in order to create a space where we as artists can lead by example.

We hope that Armenian Artists Network has here opened doors to an even brighter future of inspired works, creative collaborations and advancements in the arts for Armenians.

Lastly, I invite all artists of Armenian descent, and all arts organizations around the world and in every discipline to join us. If we have not found you yet, find us.

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