Yerevan has been taken away from us today – Nikol Aghababyan

Artist Nikol Aghababyan, who lived and created in the United States for many years, has permanently returned to Armenia and settled in his native village of Koghb. In an interview with Alpha News, the artist spoke about his return, cultural differences, and shared concern about the situation surrounding the Armenian Apostolic Church.

According to Aghababyan, returning from the United States to the homeland was not a coincidence but a long‑made decision. He is now building a home‑studio in his birthplace, Koghb.

The artist admitted that he now avoids spending much time in the capital. “Yerevan today feels as though it no longer belongs to us; it has become alien. It is filled with foreigners, political gatherings, and energies where I do not feel comfortable. Our beautiful capital seems to have been taken from our hands,” Aghababyan said.

Speaking about the realities of America and Armenia, the artist noted that in the US art is often viewed merely as a business, whereas in Armenia’s regions cultural life is more vibrant and spiritual.

“In America, materialism consumes people. There, exhibitions attract 100–150 people, while in Armenia thousands attend. Our people live through art even in times of hardship,” he added.

The artist also announced that a new art center will soon open in Noyemberyan, designed for individuals over 18. The center will host master classes and meetings aimed at preserving and strengthening the cultural spirit.

Addressing recent developments around the Armenian Apostolic Church, Aghababyan assessed them as part of an imposed global program intended to undermine the foundations of Armenian identity.

“This is not about one person or the Catholicos himself. The Catholicos is the symbol of our faith, and his image is being used to break us apart. This is a problem dating back to the 5th century, which today is being exploited by those in power,” Aghababyan said.