Winner Announced for Charles Aznavour Monument Competition

The winning design for the monument dedicated to the renowned chansonnier Charles Aznavour has been announced. The creator of the monument is David Minasian.

The statue was selected during a meeting of the competition commission, which included members from Aznavour's family, Yerevan’s Mayor Tigran Avinyan, Deputy Mayor Levon Hovhannisyan, as well as sculptors, artists, and architects.

The concept of the monument is based on Aznavour’s character, accompanied by the audience's applause during the performance of the song "La Bohème." The applauding hands symbolize a seemingly endless ovation, as if raising the singer in celebration of art and as a tribute to the artist’s everlasting charm. Due to this dynamic expression, the main figure is elevated from the ground, symbolizing Aznavourian high art. Moreover, the applauding hands are perceived at first glance as flowers placed near the artist's feet.

The lower part of the pedestal is depicted with lights from stage spotlights, which also address the installation of the pedestal on the slope of Aznavour Square from 2-3 different levels. Aznavour is portrayed in concert attire, consisting of black trousers, a black shirt, a red waistcoat, and a white handkerchief,” reads the main concept of the monument.

The monument will be made of bronze, with the handkerchief crafted from marble, and red enamel will also be used to highlight the waistcoat.

Earlier, it was reported that the exhibits were presented at the National Gallery of Armenia. In total, over 60 applications were submitted, but the variations of models exceeded 100.

Recall that on June 13, 2023, the Yerevan Municipality announced an open competition for the design of a monument in honor of French-Armenian chansonnier Charles Aznavour, marking his 100th birthday. Each applicant could submit up to three design variants.

In September, the municipality announced that 37 sketches had been submitted for the open competition for the chansonnier's monument, but none were selected. It should also be noted that on the "Active Citizen" platform, the public could vote for about a week.

Later, a new competition for the project submission was announced on November 3, 2023, with the deadline set for February 25.

It is noteworthy that the monument to Charles Aznavour will be installed at France Square, replacing the statue of Rodin.