“I am an Armenian born in Tbilisi who was imprisoned in Russia for Ukrainian nationalism.” These words belong to one of the greatest filmmakers of the 20th century, Sergei Parajanov, whose 101st birthday we celebrate today.
Born in Tbilisi on January 9, 1924, to Armenian parents, Parajanov is equally claimed by Georgians, Armenians, and Ukrainians. His creative genius transcended national boundaries and identities, yet the multicultural spirit of Tbilisi’s historic neighborhoods left a lasting mark on his work. A relentless rebel against Soviet dogma, Parajanov wove the vibrant colors, sounds, and cultures of his childhood into a singular fairy-tale narrative. His celebration of life—blending folklore, surrealism, and striking visual imagery—broke with conventional storytelling and redefined cinematic expression.
Sergei Parajanov’s films, once admired by global icons like Fellini, Godard, and Tarkovsky, are now regarded as some of the most significant in cinema history. They continue to influence and inspire generations of filmmakers and artists, both in his hometown and around the world.
Photo: Exhibition at Art Market Budapest 2024, featuring a rare collection of stills from Parajanov’s 1984 film The Legend of Suram Fortress presented by Fotoatelier and Reach Art Visual.
