
Martiros Sariyan
/1880-1972/
Martiros Sariyan was born in a peaceful rural area near Rostov-on-Don in 1880. Growing up in a simple and measured patriarchal life, he developed a natural talent for drawing, finding inspiration in the beauty of nature that surrounded him.
In 1897, he enrolled at the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture, and Architecture, which marked the beginning of his artistic journey. His first visit to Armenia in 1901 exposed him to the enchanting landscapes of Lori, Shirak, Ani, Edchmiadzin, Haghpat, Yerevan, and Sevan, leaving an everlasting impression on him. As time went on, his travels expanded to Constantinople, Egypt, and Persia, although his plans to visit India and Japan were thwarted by the outbreak of World War I.
Throughout his career, Sariyan created a series of renowned masterpieces, including notable works such as "The Street. Noon," "Constantinople Dogs," "Still Life. Grapes," "Armenian Woman," "Portrait of Poet Tsaturyan," and "Kalaki Flowers."
When the First World War broke out, accompanied by the devastating Armenian genocide, Sariyan actively participated in patriotic activities, demonstrating his commitment to his people.
In 1916, he married Lusik Aghayan, the daughter of esteemed Armenian writer Gazaros Aghayan. Sariyan played a significant role in organizing the Society of Armenian Artists and contributed to the esteemed Bryusov "Anthology of Armenian Poetry." From 1923 onward, Sariyan embarked on a remarkable artistic journey, creating painting cycles that garnered immense success at the XIV Venice Biennale.
During the same period, Sariyan also designed the coat of arms for Soviet Armenia and the curtain for the first state theater. His unwavering attachment to his homeland remained evident, even after his departure for Paris in the autumn of 1926. Throughout the subsequent decades, he dedicated himself to creating an extensive gallery of paintings, showcasing the splendor of Armenia. Additionally, he ventured into captivating theatrical scenery, murals, and book illustrations. Sariyan's art radiated a life-affirming spirit that resonated with his contemporaries while offering a glimpse into the future.
Martiros Sariyan passed away in 1972 in Yerevan, leaving behind a profound artistic legacy that celebrated the essence and beauty of his cherished homeland.