April 16 - June 11, 2016
Armenia: An Open Wound was produced by the City of Glendale and the Library, Arts & Culture Department in partnership with the Armenian American Museum (www.armenianamericanmuseum.org).
Armenia: An Open Wound debuted in Mexico City at the Museo Memoria Y Tolerancia [Museum of Memory & Tolerance] in April 2015 in honor of the Armenian Genocide centenary. The exhibition explores the intricate history of the Armenian people, and encourages viewers to gain a deeper insight into the events that lead to the 1915 Armenian Genocide. Also highlighted are the unique contributions of the international Armenian diaspora, with a focus on survivors who settled in Mexico during the early 20th century.
“[The exhibition] seeks to raise awareness about the Armenian Genocide by inspiring reflection, respect for ethnic and cultural diversity, and upholding human dignity” says Museo Memoria Y Tolerancia temporary exhibitions director Linda Atach Zaga. “The Armenian Cause is rooted in the universal theme of preserving memory as the first step in mobilizing toward global human rights and this exhibition is uniquely designed to encourage critical reasoning among diverse audiences as they relate the Armenian context to broader social justice themes.”
Library Director Cindy Cleary is enthusiastic about the opportunity to partner with the Armenian American Museum and notes that “this exhibition supports the Library’s mission to offer our community a diversity of ideas that will inspire curiosity and enrich our daily lives.” Further she “hopes all members of the public will share in this unique experience that celebrates the history and the resilience of the Armenian people and commemorates the horrific consequences of the Genocide.”
Armenian American Museum executive development committee chairman Berdj Karapetian “commend[s] the City of Glendale and the Library, Arts & Culture Department for their commitment to engaging diverse collaborative opportunities. ‘Armenia: An Open Wound’ tells the story of Armenians through a multicultural approach, and exemplifies the eclectic programs and exhibitions the Armenian American Museum aspires to bring to the City of Glendale and the broader Los Angeles community.”
A robust slate of programs complement “Armenia: An Open Wound” planned and produced by the Brand Library & Art Center and the Armenian American Museum in collaboration with local and regional community partners. The educational experience of visitors will be enhanced by lectures, discussion panels, musical performances and more.
Armenia: An Open Wound Programs:
Thursday | April 21, 2016 | 7-9:30 p.m.
“Global Realities, Local Perspectives: Examining the Refugee Crisis through Community-Based Action”
Saturday | April 30, 2016 | 1-3 p.m.
Thursday | May 5, 2016 | 7-9:30 p.m.
"Latino Americans: Empire of Dreams (1880-1942)"
Friday | May 13, 2016 | 7-9:30 p.m.
Thursday | May 19, 2016 | 7-9:30 p.m.
"Armenian Heritage: A Virtual Pilgrimage"
Thursday | May 26, 2016 | 7-9:30 p.m.
“Curator in the Spotlight: Illuminating the Armenian Middle Ages”
Thursday | June 2, 2016 | 7-9:30 p.m.
“Preserving the Past, Building the Future: the Role of Museums in a Changing World”
Saturday | June 4, 2016 | 6:00 p.m.