Armenian Relief Society (ARS) of Great Britain hosted an art exhibition of Armenian artists for Artsakh at Navasartian hall in West London in last June. The works of acclaimed Armenian painters such as Leonie Pilart and John Nakashian were on display for visitors to see as were some of the lesser known artists work, including Manouk Baghdjian, Johanes Farhadian, and Mano Kaplanian.

[caption id="attachment_2529" align="alignright" width="208"] Kaplanian uses a rare technique to create intriguing portraits of young girls[/caption] Mano Kaplanian, an Armenian-born artist, had his beautiful artwork displayed at Navasartian Hall, although he was not able to personally attend the exhibition. His distinctive drawing stood out from the rest with his use of solely black, silver, gold, and gray colors, reflecting his "delightful and unique artistry." He is a professional miniaturist, graduating from the Academy of Arts in Yerevan. He now works at the Museum of Arts and Literature, where he restores old masters and ancient manuscripts. He uses a very rare technique of merely pencil and ink on paper, yet his work is so effective and easily recognizable. Kaplanian creates the most intriguing portraits of young girls, ancient Armenian monasteries, landscapes, and churches. His work is both delicate and meticulous revealing what refined, spiritual artist he is. [caption id="attachment_2530" align="alignleft" width="298"] Nakashian's artwork reflects his vibrant personality[/caption] John Nakashian is another distinguished Armenian artist whose work featured in the exhibition. Being a self-taught artist, he prefers to create large oil canvases done in an abstract, figurative style. His work is both colorful and expressive. Nakashian was born in Iraq to a Christian Armenian family, and his culture and background have had a major influence on his art. His work has become very popular among collectors and galleries in the Middle East, Germany, and England, where it is in high demand. His colossal paintings are much like his larger than life personality; he is such an energetic and dynamic person, so full of life. He has a variety of interests which are just as eclectic, ranging from history to modern literature, as well as current affairs and theater. His work has been exhibited in many locations including, Amman, Beirut, Moscow, Warsaw, and Munich. Nakashian says, "This is just the beginning. I intend to hold many more solo exhibitions in the future." Retirement is not in the cards for him as he has no plan of stopping anytime soon. Johanes Farhadian is known to Armenians for his successful catering business which operates out of West London, but he also spends his free time painting landscapes. Although he was born in Abadan in Iran, he attended an Armenian school. He enjoys painting the ocean in different shapes and forms. The mood depicted in his canvases is peaceful yet troubled which he expresses with the use of a somber palette of grays, greens, and blues. The art exhibition at Navasartian Hall displayed some of the most diverse works by Armenian artists who have come from different generations, backgrounds, and movements. Visitors had the opportunity not only to meet some of these talented artists but also to contribute to a charitable cause for each piece of artwork purchased at the exhibition.