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Thoughts: We Are What We Think — An Exhibition by Avo Khalatyan

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The Center for Armenian Arts presents Thoughts: We Are What We Think, an exhibition featuring the work of acclaimed Armenian actor and visual artist Avo Khalatyan. Through vivid colors, layered imagery, expressive figures, and theatrical compositions, Khalatyan transforms thoughts and inner emotions into striking visual narratives. The exhibition invites viewers to consider how our perceptions, memories, and private reflections shape both who we are and how we experience the world around us.

Born into a family of artists in Yerevan, Khalatyan studied at the Hakob Kojoyan Art School and the Yerevan State Institute of Theatre and Cinematography. An Honored Artist of the Republic of Armenia, he has been a prominent performer at the Hakob Paronyan State Musical Comedy Theatre since 1998. His visual art draws deeply from this theatrical background, bringing the drama, movement, and storytelling of the stage onto the canvas. Recent presentations of his work include solo exhibitions in Yerevan and appearances in California and at The Other Art Fair Dallas.

Opening Reception: Friday, October 2, 2026 | 7:00 PM–10:00 PM
Additional Viewing: Saturday, October 3, 2026 | 3:00 PM–6:00 PM

Parking: 90-minute free parking is available at 222 N. Orange Street

Self Recognition Movement Launch

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Join Vardan Hakobyan for the official launch of the Self Recognition Movement—an Armenian cultural and civic initiative dedicated to preserving and advancing Armenian identity, culture, and shared values. Guided by the message “Know your roots, recognize yourself, and shape our shared future,” the movement seeks to connect Armenians in the homeland and throughout the diaspora through cultural exchange, mutual support, and active participation in national life.

During this special gathering, attendees will learn more about the movement’s mission, principles, and vision for Armenia’s future. The presentation will explore the importance of education, civic responsibility, cultural awareness, and stronger cooperation between Armenia and the diaspora in building a more conscious society and a stronger nation. Guests will also have an opportunity to discover ways to become involved in the movement and its future initiatives. (Self Recognition Movement)

Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: The Center for Armenian Arts, 250 N. Orange Street, Glendale, CA 91203
Admission: Free
Parking: 90-minute free parking is available at 222 N. Orange Street.

The Woman — An Exhibition by Lilit Melikyan

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The Center for Armenian Arts is pleased to present The Woman, an exhibition by Armenian artist and designer Lilit Melikyan, Director of the Teryan Cultural Center NGO. Melikyan’s long-standing artistic practice is dedicated to the revival and contemporary reinterpretation of Armenian national costume, with a special place in her work reserved for the art of batik.

At the heart of The Woman is the Armenian woman as seen through Lilit Melikyan’s eyes—strong, creative, and life-giving, carrying within her the memory, colors, culture, and future of Armenia. Each work tells the story of a woman while simultaneously telling a story about Armenia. The Glendale exhibition will present a selection of works from Melikyan’s 2025 solo exhibition in Armenia, where she showcased 50 works of art. This selection will be presented in Glendale for the first time.

The exhibition will also introduce a new coloring book inspired by Melikyan’s artwork, created for both children and adults and inviting audiences to engage with Armenian culture through color, collage, and creativity.

The Glendale presentation marks the beginning of a new journey for the artist—a series of exhibitions of her paintings and Armenian national costumes across the United States, sharing the story of Armenia through art, fashion, and cultural heritage.

Opening Night: Friday, September 18, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Second Day: Saturday, September 19, 2026 | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Location: The Center for Armenian Arts
250 N. Orange Street, Glendale, CA 91203

Parking: Parking is available at 222 N. Orange St., Glendale, CA 91203. The first 90 minutes are free, with parking available for $3.00 per hour thereafter.

Yes, We Have: Criminals — Book Launch & Birthday Celebration

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I invite you to join me for a very special evening at the Center for Armenian Arts as I celebrate my birthday with the launch of my newest book, Yes, We Have: Criminals, part of the ongoing Yes, We Have series.

Every community has its heroes, artists, scholars, entrepreneurs, and individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to society. The Armenian community is no exception, and we have much to be proud of. But if we are going to tell our story honestly, we must also be willing to acknowledge its uncomfortable chapters. Yes, We Have: Criminals is not intended to embarrass Armenians or judge an entire community by the actions of a few. Rather, it documents individual cases involving fraud, deception, corruption, and criminal activity while recognizing that those actions do not represent the Armenian people as a whole.

This book continues the mission of the Yes, We Have series: to document Armenian life and contributions honestly and preserve our stories for future generations. Celebrating our accomplishments should not require us to hide our failures; acknowledging both is part of preserving a complete and truthful history.

The evening will also feature other books from the Yes, We Have series, including Yes, We Have, Yes, We Have: Expanded, Yes, We Have: Women and also The Armenian in America and Monasteries and Churches of Artsakh + Map of Artsakh.

Most importantly, all funds raised from book sales during the event will go toward supporting student tuition, making this celebration not only about looking back at our stories, but also about investing in the next generation.

I hope you will join me for an evening of conversation, books, community, and, of course, a little birthday celebration.

Date: Wednesday, September 16, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: The Center for Armenian Arts
Address: 250 N. Orange Street, Glendale, CA 91203

Parking: Parking is available at 222 N. Orange St., Glendale, CA 91203. The first 90 minutes are free, with parking available for $3.00 per hour thereafter.

2026 Southern California Chess Exhibition with Grandmaster Levon Aronian

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Join us at the Center for Armenian Arts for a special Chess Exhibition with Grandmaster Levon Aronian, one of the world’s elite chess players and a three-time Chess Olympiad champion.

As part of the 2026 Southern California Open Chess Tournament, Grandmaster Aronian will take on multiple opponents at once in an exciting simultaneous chess exhibition. Chess enthusiasts will have the rare opportunity to challenge a world-class grandmaster or watch elite-level strategy unfold up close.

Participation in the simultaneous exhibition is $50, and space is limited, so early registration is encouraged. General admission for spectators is free, and everyone is welcome to attend and watch the exhibition.

Whether you’re an experienced chess player, an aspiring competitor, or simply a fan of the game, don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience chess at the highest level.

Date: Friday, August 28, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: The Center for Armenian Arts
Address: 250 N. Orange Street, Glendale, CA 91203

Parking: Parking is available at 222 N. Orange St., Glendale, CA 91203. The first 90 minutes are free, with parking available for $3.00 per hour thereafter.

Simultaneous Chess Entry Fee: $50
General Admission: FREE

Register Here!!

An Evening Celebrating Robert Amirkhanyan: Documentary Screening & Book Presentation

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Join us at the Center for Armenian Arts for a special evening dedicated to the life, work, and creative legacy of Robert Amirkhanyan, acclaimed composer, Honored Artist of the Republic of Armenia, and recipient of numerous international awards and honors.

The evening will feature the premiere screening of the documentary film Sirtn Im by Order Film Production, which explores Amirkhanyan’s life and artistic journey through his music, memories, and personal story. The program will also celebrate the release and presentation of a five-volume book collection devoted to his life and creative work.

Although Robert Amirkhanyan will not be able to attend the event in person, his daughter, Anna Khachatryan Amirkhanyan, who served as the film’s producer and authored the accompanying books, will be present to introduce the documentary and collection and share insights into the project.

The evening will also feature special musical performances, bringing Amirkhanyan’s work to life and offering audiences an opportunity to experience the lasting impact of his music.

Join us for an evening of film, literature, music, and remembrance honoring the remarkable artistic legacy of Robert Amirkhanyan.

Date/Time: Thursday, August 27, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: The Center for Armenian Arts
Address: 250 N. Orange Street, Glendale, CA 91203

Parking: Parking is available at 222 N. Orange St., Glendale, CA 91203. The first 90 minutes are free, with parking available for $3.00 per hour thereafter.

Tête-à-Tête & Book Signing with Vahé Berberian

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Join us for an evening of literature, conversation, and inspiration at the Center for Armenian Arts as acclaimed author Vahé Berberian sits down with Anahid Oshagan for an intimate Tête-à-Tête exploring Berberian’s latest novel, Letters from Zaatar.

Through an engaging discussion, the evening will delve into the novel’s themes of exile, identity, love, politics, and the search for belonging in an ever-changing world. Guests will have the opportunity to hear directly from the author about his creative process, the stories that inspired the book, and the ideas that shape his work.

Following the conversation, attendees are invited to meet Vahé Berberian during a book signing. Copies of Letters from Zaatar will be available for purchase at the event.

Whether you’re a longtime admirer of Berberian’s writing or discovering his work for the first time, this special literary evening promises thoughtful dialogue and meaningful connection.

Date: Thursday, August 6, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Center for Armenian Arts
250 N. Orange Street, Glendale, CA 91203

Books will be available for purchase at the event.

LinkedIn 101: Book Presentation, Masterclass & Panel Discussion

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Join us at the Center for Armenian Arts for an engaging evening with the author of LinkedIn 101, featuring a book presentation, an interactive masterclass, and a panel discussion focused on building a strong professional presence in today’s digital world.

Whether you are a student, entrepreneur, business professional, or job seeker, this event will provide practical strategies for leveraging LinkedIn to expand your network, strengthen your personal brand, and unlock new career and business opportunities. The program will include insights from the book, expert guidance on creating an effective LinkedIn profile, and an open discussion where attendees can ask questions and exchange ideas.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable career-building skills, connect with fellow professionals, and learn how to make LinkedIn work for you.

Date: Tuesday, July 28, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: The Center for Armenian Arts
250 N. Orange Street, Glendale, CA 91203

Memory, Resistance & Transnational Solidarity: From 2012 to the Present and Beyond

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The Center for Armenian Arts is proud to host Memory, Resistance & Transnational Solidarity: From 2012 to the Present and Beyond, a two-day international seminar bringing together scholars, legal experts, artists, curators, and human rights advocates to examine the power of memory, education, art, and collective action in confronting historical injustice.

Through keynote presentations, panel discussions, and audience conversations, participants will explore topics including historical denial, comparative justice, human rights advocacy, memorialization, freedom of expression, and the role of museums, exhibitions, and public art in preserving historical memory. The program features distinguished speakers from leading academic, legal, and cultural institutions who will share their research and experiences in advancing justice and fostering transnational solidarity.

The seminar also includes the opening of the ReflectSpace exhibition, offering attendees an opportunity to engage with powerful visual narratives that commemorate survivors and promote dialogue across communities.

Whether you are a student, educator, researcher, artist, or community member, this event offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of historical memory, connect with experts from diverse fields, and participate in meaningful conversations about justice, remembrance, and international solidarity.

Event Dates: Saturday, July 25 – Sunday, July 26, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Location: Center for Armenian Arts
250 N. Orange Street, Glendale, CA 91203

ReflectSpace Exhibition Opening:
Saturday, July 25, 2026 | 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
222 E. Harvard Street, Glendale, CA 91202

Armenian Vegans of LA: The Animal People Film Screening & Discussion

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Join Armenian Vegans of LA for a meaningful evening of film, conversation, and community at the Center for Armenian Arts. The event will feature a screening of The Animal People (2019), a powerful documentary that tells the true story of the SHAC (Stop Huntingdon Animal Cruelty) activists and their campaign against one of the world’s largest animal testing laboratories. The film also highlights the story of Armenian activist Andy Stepanian, whose role in the movement brought national attention to issues of animal rights and free speech.

Following the screening, guests are invited to stay for a moderated discussion exploring the film’s themes and their relevance today. The evening will conclude with an opportunity to connect with fellow attendees over vegan refreshments, and Armenian vegan cookbooks will also be available for purchase.

Whether you’re passionate about animal welfare, interested in social justice, or simply looking to connect with the local Armenian community, this free event offers an engaging and welcoming space for learning, dialogue, and fellowship.

Event Details

Date/Time: Tuesday, August 4, 2026 | 7:00 PM

Admission is free. All are welcome.