"My Time" for Youth Through Art

Naregatsi Art Institute unveiled the exhibition featuring works created during the youth program "My Time" implemented by the "Munetik" Youth NGO in the village of Aygedzor, Tavush.

In attendance at the presentation were Kristina Tataryan, Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport of the Republic of Armenia; Zara Aslanyan, Head of the Youth Department; Armine Petrosyan, Senior Expert at the Youth Department; as well as artists, art critics, and students.

The program "My Time" was implemented by the "Munetik" Youth NGO with the support of the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport of the Republic of Armenia.
Eighteen teenagers and young people aged 14–30 from the regions of Armenia, the Diaspora, and displaced persons from Artsakh participated in the program. The initiative aims to support talented young people living in the regions by providing them with the opportunity to create and learn how to present their own stories using modern technological tools.

The exhibition presents a selection of works created within the framework of the program. Participants worked with various materials, such as stone, sand, and construction adhesive, and also produced graphic art and decorative designs. The project is notable because, in addition to drawing and sketching, the participants acquired skills in animation software and filmmaking. And the works have their own original animated films.

According to artist Hrach Hambardzumyan, author of the "My Time" program and president of the "Munetik" NGO, the initiative centers on empowering young people to tell stories about themselves, their communities, and the environment using modern tools.

"The program is called “My Time”, enabling people living today to present their own stories. Technology plays a major role in our lives today, yet it is not always used purposefully. It is primarily used for gaming, watching movies, or maintaining a presence on social media. However, there are numerous accessible programs and tools available that allow us to showcase our country, village, and community in a beautiful and engaging way," noted Hrach Hambardzumyan.

Tatevik Hambardzumyan, art critic and Naregatsi Art Institute exhibitions curator, emphasized the educational significance of the program and the importance of an environment of creative freedom.

"These are very fresh approaches, bold and tasteful works presented. Works presented here are characterized by very fresh approaches, boldness, and good taste. Young people respond more readily to workshops, as these do not involve exams, grades, or other mechanisms for testing acquired knowledge—factors that often facilitate the formation of certain connections. People get involved in such programs more freely and boldly," said Tatevik Hambardzumyan.

According to her, support from the RA Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport is also crucial for the continuity of such initiatives. "The support from the ministry is very great, both materially and morally. It is a great incentive to continue and initiate new projects. When your activities are valued and encouraged, it feels like your back is strong," she noted.

The exhibition will be open until September 18.