FRESNO — The Armenian Museum of Fresno invites the community to the opening reception of “ART That Transcends Borders: A Voice That Leaves a Lasting Impact,” an exhibition showcasing the vibrant and expressive work of internationally collected painter and illustrator Evgenia Parsadanian-Harris. The free public reception will be held Friday, August 7, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Armenian Museum of Fresno, 550 E. Shaw Ave. in Fresno. The exhibition will remain on view through August 31.
Born and raised in Tbilisi, Georgia, Parsadanian-Harris has devoted her career to celebrating the beauty, history and resilience of her Armenian heritage through art. Her paintings reflect a deep appreciation for the people, architecture, landscapes and traditions that shaped her life, while exploring universal themes of earth, life, love, irony and the shared human experience.
A defining influence on her artistic journey was renowned artist Gayane Khachaturian, who selected Parsadanian-Harris as her only protégé. Under Khachaturian’s mentorship, she developed a distinctive artistic voice characterized by bold color, intricate pattern and deeply personal storytelling.
Since 1989, Parsadanian-Harris has built an internationally respected career, with her paintings finding homes in private, museum and institutional collections throughout Georgia, Armenia, Russia, Israel, Italy, Greece, the United States and beyond. Her work reflects a lifelong commitment to preserving cultural identity while celebrating the traditions, memories and humanity that connect people across borders.
Parsadanian-Harris was also honored to be a founding member of the Union of Armenian Artists of Georgia at the Hayartun Center in Tbilisi. Alongside distinguished painter Meruzhan Shahumyan, she helped establish an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting Armenian artistic heritage during a pivotal period in the region’s history.
Filled with luminous colors, expressive compositions and symbolic imagery, “ART That Transcends Borders” invites visitors into a world where nature, architecture, memory and humanity intersect. Whether depicting sacred traditions, everyday life or the emotional landscape of the human spirit, each painting tells a visual story that resonates across cultures and generations.
Visitors to the opening reception will have the opportunity to meet Evgenia Parsadanian-Harris and learn more about the inspiration behind her work.
Enhancing the evening will be a special performance by internationally recognized solo flutist Tracy Harris, a Yamaha Performing Artist and Clinician, former principal flutist with six West Coast symphony orchestras, and Professor of Flute and Artist-in-Residence at the College of the Sequoias.
Harris is also the director of the internationally award-winning Wyndfall Flute Orchestra, which has earned multiple honors from the National Flute Association. An acclaimed performer, educator, author and lecturer, she has inspired musicians around the world through her concert performances, masterclasses, clinics and publications. Her performance at the opening reception will provide an elegant musical backdrop, creating a memorable evening celebrating the visual and performing arts while honoring Armenian culture and creativity.
Admission is free.
Join the Armenian Museum of Fresno in celebrating its 25th Anniversary with these and additional cultural art performances, exhibits and presentations planned throughout the year – a special year to experience Armenian art and culture.
The AMF is located at 550 E. Shaw Ave. Fresno, 93710.
ZARTONK Gallery is located at Historic Helm Building 1107 Fulton St. Downtown Fresno, 93721.
Entrance is free and open to the public. Funded in part by the citizens of City of Fresno, Measure P, PARCS Department, Expanded Access to Arts and Culture program.
Founded in 2001, the Armenian Museum of Fresno is dedicated to preserving and promoting Armenian culture, heritage, and history through exhibits, events, research, and educational programs. The museum serves as a cultural hub for the community, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the rich Armenian legacy and its global impact.
The AMF is located at the University of California Center at 550 E. Shaw Avenue in Fresno, across from Fashion Fair mall. The ADA-compliant facility is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and easily accessible through the public transportation system. Admission is free.
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