Paruyr Sevak’s figure as a symbol of the Armenian intellectual – perpetually engaged in the quest for truth–has been repeatedly reflected in the works of Sargis Muradyan (1927–2007), People’s Artist of the Republic of Armenia. An examination of the series of portraits that Muradyan dedicated to Sevak over the years, along with the thematic compositions and frescoes, reveals their artistic role and significance within the broader development of Armenian national fine arts in the 1960s and 80s. During that period, a novel vision, characterized by psychological depth and a symbolic, multilayered nature, was being formed, according to which Sevak’s portraits were consistent with contemporary artists’ interpretations of the intellectual’s figure. We’ve drawn parallels among the portraits by Hovhannes Zardaryan, Eduard Isabekyan, Ara Bekaryan, which – similar to Muradyan’s work - reflect inner tension, spiritual quest, and national consciousness.

KeywordsSargis Muradyan Paruyr Sevak Armenian fine arts portrait fresco drawing sketch