TOURINFO-December 23, 2023-In 2001, Yerevan, the vibrant capital of Armenia, welcomed a gem that would go on to redefine the cultural landscape of the city—ArtBridge Bookstore Café, on 20 Abovyan St. For 22 remarkable years, this haven stood as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of literature, arts, and culinary delights, etching its unique presence in the heart of Armenia.
ArtBridge was more than a mere coffee shop; it was an immersive experience curated by its visionary founder, Shakeh Havan. This artistic haven aimed to transcend the conventional, offering patrons a space where they could lose themselves in a world of creativity, intellectual stimulation, and cultural vibrancy.
The café’s interior was a testament to this commitment, a kaleidoscope of colors and artistic expression adorned with paintings, sculptures, and installations that breathed life into the space. ArtBridge became a sanctuary for local artists, providing a platform to display their talent and a source of inspiration for art enthusiasts.
However, ArtBridge’s significance extended beyond its aesthetic allure. A cultural hub played host to art exhibitions, live music performances, and various cultural events. Local artists and enthusiasts found solace within its walls, where creativity flowed freely, and ideas were born and nurtured.
Shakeh Havan, the driving force behind ArtBridge, not only curated a space for artistic expression but also supported those in the arts, publishing, and cultural sectors. For patrons, ArtBridge was more than a café; it was a cozy escape, a bastion of the arts and literature, and a nurturing environment that transcended the boundaries of traditional coffee shops.
The café actively contributed to both Armenian and international cultural events, sponsoring and participating in festivals like the “Golden Apricot,” “Reanimania,” “Apricot Tree” and “HayFest.” Over 300 meetings, book presentations, and exhibitions took place within its walls, creating a dynamic space for collaboration and cultural enrichment.
As the news broke that ArtBridge would bid farewell to its physical space on Abovyan Street in January 2024, a wave of nostalgia and gratitude swept through its loyal patrons. In a bittersweet farewell on December 23, 2023, patrons gathered to express gratitude for 23 years of inspiration, creativity, and unwavering support for the arts.
Founder Shakeh Havan expressed: “For me, December 23 is a day of thanksgiving to those people who have been with us for so many years.” The café, with a rich history spanning 22 years, leaves behind a legacy—a testament to its unique mission of intertwining business with support for the arts, publishing, and culture.
The closure of ArtBridge Café marked the end of physical space but not the end of its legacy. It leaves behind a testament to its unique mission of intertwining business with support for the arts, publishing, and culture. The café’s rich history becomes a part of Yerevan’s cultural fabric—a legacy that transcends brick and mortar.
As the doors closed on Abovyan Street, the spirit of ArtBridge continued to inspire. Its memory lives on in the hearts of those who found solace in its artistic embrace. The café may no longer grace the physical space, but its spirit, creativity, and the sense of community it fostered will continue to resonate, inspiring future generations.
The farewell to ArtBridge Café is not an end but a beautiful chapter in the rich tapestry of Yerevan’s cultural history. It signifies a transformation of vision rather than a cessation. As the physical presence fades away, the love for literature, arts, and diverse cuisines that ArtBridge embodied will forever echo in the hearts of those who shared in its magic.
In bidding farewell to ArtBridge Café, we acknowledge the end of a chapter but also embrace the beautiful beginning of what comes next. The café’s legacy serves as a reminder that every farewell is, indeed, a new beginning—a continuation of the journey that started 22 years ago on Abovyan Street.
TourInfo-Juanita Mouradian
