The Martiros Saryan House Museum is a true gem. The Museum celebrates the life, work, and memory of one of Armenia’s most beloved painters – Martiros Saryan. Born in 1880, Saryan travelled extensively across Armenia, capturing the landscape’s rustic beauty in his paintings. He was a versatile artist, painting not only scenery but also portraits, village life, still life, among other things.
The Museum itself is actually located inside Martiros Saryan’s former residence. The permanent collection consists of about 300 pieces, demonstrating the evolution of the painter. Visitors can see some of Saryan’s early sketches, dreamy water colors, and dynamic fauvist masterpieces. The entire Museum consists of three floors, two galleries located on the upper two floors and Saryan’s studio/gallery on the lower floor. The studio also contains many personal memorabilia of Saryan, including letters, family photos, and awards.
Not coincidentally, the Museum is located on a street named after Saryan himself. There is also a gigantic statute of Saryan in a park located between the Opera and Cascade. Here, local artists set up a fairly large painting bazaar, where they sell their own work. Coincidence? I think not!
This is easily one of my favorite museums in Yerevan. It is colorful, emotional, and unique. Art fans should definitely consider visiting!
