GLENDALE—The Krtikashyan Family, in association with Glendale Arts and EngAGE, will present “MEMORIA: AVO” at ace/121 Gallery, a poignant exhibition commemorating the first anniversary of the passing of renowned artist Avetis Krtikashyan, affectionately known as Avo. This collection serves as a tribute to Avo’s remarkable talent and artistic vision.
Ernie Silva, artist, colleague, and friend, says, “Avo Krtikashyan was a ray of light not only to his friends and family, but to his artistic community. Anyone lucky enough to have been in his presence will always feel an overwhelming sense of love, joy, and peace.”
The Latin word “memoria,” meaning memory, beautifully encapsulates the essence of this exhibition, inviting viewers to cherish and reflect upon Avo’s profound impact on the art world. Through vibrant canvases and expressive forms, “MEMORIA” celebrates his enduring legacy and invites contemplation on the power of art to evoke emotion and preserve the essence of a creative spirit.
Standing amidst his creations, Avo’s son, David Krtikashyan, “feels his spirit urging us forward, reminding us that love and art are timeless legacies.”
MEMORIA: AVO will be on view from Wednesday, August 14 until Saturday, August 24, with a special reception open to the public on Tuesday, August 13 from 7 to 10 p.m.
Gayane Rostomyan, Avo’s wife, extends an invitation to the community to visit the gallery and attend the reception to celebrate her husband’s artistic legacy. “One year ago, we lost not just an artist, but the light that guided our hearts.” Avo’s dear friend Marie Thomas adds, “His spirit lives on through his work finding beauty and meaning in every brushstroke and canvas.”
ace/121 Gallery is located at 121 N. Kenwood St., Glendale, CA 91206. The gallery is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Additional details are available online.
Avetis Krtikaskhyan (1955-2023) was born in Yerevan, Armenia. He began to show an interest in drawing at an early age. In 1971, after graduating from high school, despite objections from his parents, he applied and was admitted to Terlemezyan College of the Arts. His love for creativity continued to grow and he excelled in academic drawing and painting. After receiving a BA in Fine Arts, he pursued his education and got a Master’s Degree at the Art Academy in Yerevan where he was taught by some of the great instructors of the time, studying color theory, composition and anatomy from long pose, life models. After graduating, he taught at the Art Academy from 1981 to 1991, influencing a decade of young artists. He was also an active participant in international and Russian art exhibits.
In 1991, Avo moved to Los Angeles with his young family. There he built a home with an ample garden and filled it with trees that grew lush with apricots, figs and pomegranates, a reminder of Armenia. Many mornings in that garden, he was transformed into a kid again waging futile battles against squirrels and gophers.
When he wasn’t in his art studio, you’d often find Avo at his dining room table surrounded by friends, Armenian barbecue and often, a bottle of tequila. He’d always encourage his friends to keep creating. “No matter what,” he would tell them. “Keep drawing and painting, as much as you can.”
Glendale Arts is an award-winning 501(c)3 non-profit organization that generates opportunities throughout greater Los Angeles to showcase, promote, encourage, and engage with the arts. Founded in 2008, GA delivers dynamic arts and entertainment programming through signature programs such as the Glendale International Film Festival and Solo Fest; operates and programs ace/121 Gallery, a multidisciplinary venue in Glendale, CA; and drives engagement through its membership program, SCENE. Find out more online or @GlendaleArtsCA on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
ace/121 Gallery is a multidisciplinary venue located in the center of Glendale, CA at the ace/121 artist colony. The Gallery hosts year-round art exhibits, live performances, screenings, conversations, readings, classes, workshops, and special events. ace/121 Gallery is operated and programmed by Glendale Arts, an award-winning 501(c)3 non-profit organization that generates opportunities to showcase, promote, and create engagement around the arts and entertainment in Glendale and throughout greater Los Angeles. Find out more online or @ace121gallery on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
