Arno Babajanyan, Memorial sculpture at Swan Lake, Yerevan, Armenia
The Arno Babajanyan memorial is a 2.8-metre bronze and granite sculpture by sculptor David Bejanyan and architect Levon Igityan. It stands at the intersection of Tumanyan and Teryan Streets, by the artificial Swan Lake near the Yerevan Opera and Ballet Theatre. The figure shows the composer with large, eagle-like hands raised above a piano and disproportionately short legs.
The monument was created by sculptor David Bejanyan and unveiled in July 2003. Following public response to its original proportions, the sculpture was modified to refine its details.
The monument stands at the crossing of Tumanyan and Teryan Streets by Swan Lake, in the heart of Yerevan. It honours Arno Babajanyan, a People's Artist of the USSR, on the occasion of his 80th birthday. The bronze figure of the composer at the piano has become a meeting point in the city centre.
The memorial sits at a busy street corner downtown and is easily accessible on foot from nearby attractions. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best lighting for viewing and photography without heavy crowds.
The first version, installed a year before the official unveiling, was hastily dismantled after criticism of its artistic treatment: arms raised over the piano like eagle's wings, an oversized nose and disproportionately short legs. The bronze and granite monument, 2.8 metres tall, was then installed again and opened on 4 July 2003.
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