On February 19, under the auspices of the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia in Georgia, the opening ceremony of the solo exhibition of contemporary Armenian painter Samvel Chibukhchyan entitled “Space and Time” took place at the Tbilisi IART GALLERY under the auspices of the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia in Georgia. 

The exhibition, which will continue until February 28, was organized by the joint efforts of the Yerevan “Antikyan” exhibition hall, the “Art Caucausus” foundation and the Tbilisi IART GALLERY. Welcoming the attendees, the Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia Ashot Smbatyan particularly emphasized the opportunity to present the Armenian landscape to the local audience through the artist’s paintings, expressing gratitude to the initiator of the initiative, the director of the “Antikyan” exhibition hall Armine Antikyan, and the host and supporter, the director of the IArt gallery Ika Bokuchava. In turn, Ika Bokuchava emphasized that many Georgian-Armenian artists have been exhibited at this gallery, but Samvel Chibukhchyan was the first to represent Armenia. The opening ceremony was attended by figures of Georgian culture and art, heads and representatives of diplomatic missions accredited in Georgia, and members of the Armenian community. The exhibition “Space and Time” will be open until February 28 at the “IArt” gallery in Tbilisi (address: D. Uznadze str. 13), admission is free

Marina Stepanyan, Art critic

The initial encounter with the works of Samvel Chibukhchyan immerses the viewer in a contemplative state, one characterized by serene tranquility and profound enlightenment. The artist gradually leads the observer into his distinctive spatial and sculptural vision, guiding them along a path where the world is intricately composed of light, air, and shadow. Within this universe, a harmonious order exists, one that dispels chaos and malevolence. The nature depicted is idealized—an Armenia untainted by any external influence, showcasing its structural essence. The foundational elements of this world include majestic mountains, seemingly polished by light, meadows lush with vibrant greenery, charming houses with red roofs, boats resting on the shores of serene lakes, horses roaming vast mountain expanses, dense forests standing like protective barriers, and, above all, a soft blue sky with drifting clouds.

In each of Chibukhchyan’s works, one can unmistakably discern his unique artistic style, which transcends simple narrative. The artist endeavors to uncover the deeper truths of nature, though these truths are shrouded in mystery and complexity, defying easy rationalization. However, the strength of his individual voice is such that, by acknowledging the vastness of the world, he imbues his landscapes with added layers of meaning, striving to unveil the hidden essence of existence. In his pursuit, Chibukhchyan seeks to capture the fleeting and mutable qualities of life’s beauty, much in the same way that Hakob Hakobyan’s art resonates with him—an artist he approaches with deep respect and understanding.

Chibukhchyan defines a system of plans and perspectives in his work, through which he intuitively grasps the weight of the earth, the strength and density of its mountains, dusted with golden sunlight, and the form of slender trees. Intellectual contemplation permeates his compositions, yet the artist’s refined sensibility ensures that these philosophical elements do not overshadow the lyrical qualities inherent in each piece.

The sharpness of Chibukhchyan's eye ensures precision in both form and color. The decorative resonance, classical clarity, and velvety softness of color gradients enhance the clarity of volumes and the shadows they cast, all of which are orchestrated by the interplay of sunlight and air. Even the artist’s seemingly casual depiction of drapery, adorned with a checkerboard pattern, is transformed into a dynamic composition, rich in texture, movement, and the weight of the fabric.

Ultimately, Samvel Chibukhchyan’s works offer the viewer an opportunity to temporarily immerse themselves in a space of emotional tranquility, within a world defined by clarity and stability.