Greek and Armenian Mythology Through the Eyes of Children: A Unique Art Exhibition by Armenian Students Opens in Athens

18 June, 2025

On the occasion of International Children's Day, a unique exhibition showcasing the works of students from Armenian art schools was opened in Athens through the initiative of the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia in Greece and with the support of the Athens Municipality.

Titled “Greek and Armenian Mythology Through Children's Eyes,” the opening ceremony took place at the "Melina" Cultural Foundation and was held within the framework of the “Universe Art” International Competition-Festival. The exhibition features around 100 selected paintings created by children aged 5 to 18.

The opening was attended by Eleni Zontirou, President of the Athens Organization of Culture, Sports and Youth (OPANDA); His Grace Bishop Khoren Arakelian, Primate of the Armenian Diocese of Greece; Anna Harutyunyan, President of the “Universe Art” International Festival; festival board members; participating children from Armenia; heads, teachers, and students of Armenian educational centers in Athens; intellectuals; and representatives of the Athens Municipality.

In his opening remarks, Ambassador Tigran Mkrtchyan emphasized:

“Plato’s idea that the goal of education is to teach the love of beauty is absolutely correct. But it must also be added that devotion to art does not end there. Aesthetic education aims not only to nurture artists but also to shape well-rounded individuals and responsible citizens capable of building successful lives in a free society.

This exhibition brings together more than a hundred competition-selected works from art schools across Armenia, all dedicated to Greek and Armenian mythology. In a shared cultural space, layers of Greek and Armenian artistic expression come together. These kinds of cultural interactions hold civilizational significance.

The fact that students have depicted mythological characters—figures that, though bearing different names, share common traits in both Armenian and Greek cultures—further highlights the cultural connections between the two nations. These millennia-old features are expressed through children aged 10 to 15. It is a truly exceptional and beautiful phenomenon. In some works, the influence of Hellenism on Armenian culture is also evident.”

The Ambassador extended his gratitude to Athens Mayor Haris Doukas, OPANDA President Eleni Zontirou, “Universe Art” Festival President Anna Harutyunyan, the "Mercury" Cultural Center, visiting teachers and students from Yerevan's art schools, and Shushanik Semerjian, Head of the “Avetis” Dance School.

Following this, OPANDA President Eleni Zontirou gave a speech, conveying the warm regards of the Athens Mayor and emphasizing the importance of the event in the context of intercultural dialogue.
Anna Harutyunyan, President of the “Universe Art” International Festival, spoke about the festival's background, its global significance, and the honor of showcasing Armenian children's artwork in Athens after long and dedicated preparation.

The opening ceremony was followed by captivating performances from the “Avetis” Armenian Dance Ensemble based in Athens.

The exhibition will remain open to visitors until June 30.

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