An exhibition celebrating the Armenian connections of Swallows and Amazons opens in Carlisle, Cumbria, next week.

Swallows and Armenians is a passionate and personal project by Appleby artist Karen Babayan which celebrates the inspirational Anglo-Armenian family, the Altounyans, models for the Walker family in the classic Swallows and Amazons series by Arthur Ransome.

The first part of this project, a book, exhibition and performance by Young Company launched last year at Theatre by the Lake in Keswick. Now, In 2020, the project flies the nest, with the exhibition touring to 3 further venues, the first being The Old Fire Station in Carlisle.

The exhibition of printworks, paintings and objects is expanded to include an art film and wall-based text works. A newly-launched audiobook, narrated by Persia Babayan-Taylor, will also be available to preview in the gallery alongside the exhibition.

These contemporary artworks will be displayed alongside the historic collection of family portraits by Dora Altounyan, Mavis (Titty) Guzelian and WG Collingwood, generously loaned by the Guzelian family. These include the iconic portrait of Titty as a child by her mother Dora Altounyan, which was in Arthur Ransome’s possession for many years.

The exhibition at The Old Fire Station in Carlisle runs from 19th February to 15th March 2020. Opening hours are 10am-4pm Wednesday to Saturday, and 12-4pm on Sundays. Call 01228 598596 to confirm before visiting if necessary.

The following special events are also taking place during the exhibition:

  • Sunday 1st March, 12-4pm: A family-friendly adventure map-making drop-in workshop (free entry).
  • Saturday 7th March, 2pm – Artist’s Talk, Book Reading & Circle Dance Event with Karen Babayan – An opportunity to listen to the fascinating history of Swallows and Armenians from the artist and author herself. She is joined by Shakeh Major Tchilingirian, a renowned dance artist based in London, who brings an Armenian cultural tradition to Cumbria. No previous dance experience necessary (Entry: £4, includes a glass of wine).
  • Saturday 14th March, 12-4pm – Stories We Are Told: – a workshop for adults inspired by the stories in the exhibition. Explore themes of identity & hidden histories through relief print techniques with Karen Babayan. Beginners are welcome (Entry: £40 per person, materials provided).