TEHRAN- The collective exhibition "Color and Narrative," showcasing works by 86 Iranian artists, was inaugurated at the Blue Mosque in Yerevan, Armenia on Friday. 

Organized by the Cultural Attaché Office of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Armenia, in collaboration with the Daya Cultural and Artistic Center and the Avaye Nasr Iranian Cultural Institute, the event coincided with International Peace Day and Armenia's Independence Day.

During the opening ceremony, Mohammad Asadi Movahed, Cultural Attaché of Iran in Armenia, expressed gratitude to the Armenian government and people for their ongoing support of joint cultural and artistic endeavors. He emphasized the shared historical and civilizational ties that serve as a foundation for strengthening bilateral relations.

"The rich cultural and historical backgrounds of Iran and Armenia provide a fertile ground for developing relations across various fields, especially culture and the arts. Events like this act as bridges to deepen friendship between our nations," he stated. 

He also highlighted the significance of International Peace Day, asserting: "Arts and culture know no borders; they can unite nations and convey messages of peace and friendship to the world."

Furthermore, he condemned the silence of global powers regarding injustices and crimes committed against the Palestinian people, particularly in Gaza. "Nations rooted in culture and civilization have always sought peace and tranquility for humanity. Those who resort to violence and slaughter are strangers to civilization," he added.

The exhibition will run until September 22, and will feature complimentary puppet-making workshops for interested visitors.

The exhibition aims to promote messages of peace through art, with puppets serving as "Messengers of Peace" alongside other artworks illustrating inner peace, environmental harmony, and reflections on war.

A day earlier, on September 18, another exhibition titled "Friendship Through Art" was inaugurated at the Armenian Artists' Union. These two cultural events represent Iran-Armenia's second joint exhibition series this year, drawing artists and audiences from Yerevan and beyond.

The organization of these two cultural events in Yerevan underscores the vital role of art in fostering cultural and people-to-people ties between Iran and Armenia. 

The active participation of artists reaffirmed that the language of art remains the most effective bridge for friendship among nations and the promotion of global peace.

Iran and Armenia share a rich and deeply rooted cultural relationship forged over centuries of historical, civilizational, and religious connections. 

This longstanding bond is reflected in shared traditions, linguistic affinities, and mutual appreciation for arts and crafts. Both nations have historically supported each other's cultural heritage through joint exhibitions, collaborative artistic projects, and cultural exchanges that promote understanding and friendship. 

As neighboring countries with intertwined histories, Iran and Armenia continue to build a resilient cultural partnership that not only preserves their unique identities but also promotes peace and dialogue between their peoples.

SAB/