Flood 1970

Here we see "Flood," a watercolor artwork by Petros Malayan, an Armenian artist born in 1927. Malayan's work is often interpreted through the lens of his cultural identity and the historical context of Armenia, a nation with a long history of struggle and resilience. In this piece, what do the rising waters suggest? Is it the literal threat to the village, or a metaphor for the socio-political turmoil experienced by Armenians throughout the 20th century? The somber palette and the angular depiction of the houses evoke a sense of precariousness. The boats, perhaps symbols of escape or survival, are rendered with a tenderness that contrasts with the harshness of the environment. Malayan lived through periods of intense political and social change. His art provides a window into the lived experiences of a community marked by both tragedy and an enduring spirit. "Flood" can be seen as a reflection on the themes of displacement, adaptation, and the human connection to both land and heritage.