Golden April festival establishes new tradition
ArmInfo.This year the opening of the international film festival "Golden Apricot" will take place without the traditional red carpet. The creative team of the film festival decided to give a new additional meaning to this ceremony, replacing the red carpet with carpets woven by local carpet weavers according to sketches by artist David Kochunts, which make up the Point of Reference collection.
On the eve of the festival, the Ararat Museum, together with the Golden Apricot Film Festival and AHA Collective, organized an exhibition of carpet works by David Kochunts, Brave Khndzoresk, curated by Nairi Khachaturyan. This exhibition explores the traditions of Armenian carpet weaving, one of the oldest crafts, viewing them in the context of the area, architecture and nature. A special part of the exhibition consists of photographs by Piruza Khalapyan, where carpets are presented in unexpected and impressive places. The exhibition will run until August 1 (admission is free).
According to the artistic director of Golden Apricot Karen Avetisyan, the cancellation of the red carpet has several reasons. First of all, he noted that the elitism associated with the red carpet, which has been ingrained over the years, contradicts the anti-elitist content of the festival. Secondly, according to Avetisyan, given the rich traditions of Armenian carpet weaving and the potential of modern talented designers and artists, it would make more sense, like a festival poster, to use a special carpet every year, traditionally woven by women, but using modern visual solutions.
This year "Golden Apricot" will take place from July 7 to 14 and will be dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Sergei Parajanov and Charles Aznavour. According to tradition, within the framework of the Golden Apricot, Yerevan viewers will have the opportunity to watch competitive films from around the world, as well as from the most prestigious film festivals (Cannes, Berlin, etc.). A visit from prominent figures of world cinema is also expected, who will present their experience and art to film lovers in Armenia.