
The Enduring Legacy of Sergei Parajanov
Sergei Parajanov was not just a filmmaker—he was a visionary who redefined the language of cinema and gave form to the soul of Armenia through art. His works, brimming with poetic imagery, surrealism, and symbolic resonance, opened a new dimension of cultural expression that continues to inspire generations.
In my collage, I sought to echo Parajanov’s spirit by fusing visual metaphors that reflect both his aesthetic and his philosophical depth. The hypnotic eye over his portrait symbolizes how Parajanov saw the world—not just as it is, but as it could be imagined. The spiral within the eye draws the viewer into a realm where memory, myth, and emotion intertwine—a cinematic world he meticulously constructed in films like The Color of Pomegranates.
The pomegranate, a recurring motif in Armenian culture and in Parajanov’s work, represents fertility, resilience, and the richness of national identity. In the hands of the people, it becomes a shared offering—a symbol that his heritage is not a relic of the past, but a living, breathing tradition carried forward by today’s voices.
The dove, bearing a pomegranate seed, speaks of peace and continuity. It reminds us of Parajanov’s ability to find beauty in hardship and to elevate his nation’s soul even in times of personal and political oppression. Beneath it, the Armenian church stands firm—like Parajanov himself—anchored in faith, culture, and timelessness.
The phrase «His Vision, Our Voice» encapsulates the essence of Parajanov’s legacy. His artistry was rooted in tradition, yet never bound by it; it was uniquely Armenian, yet universally human.
Parajanov’s heritage lives in every Armenian who dares to dream, to create.
