An exhibition celebrating the Armenian connections of Swallows and Amazons has opened in the Newbiggin Maritime Centre, Northumberland.

Swallows and Armenians is a passionate and personal project by 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, and earlier this year the exhibition went on display in Carlisle. The exhibition of printworks, paintings and objects includes an art film and wall-based text works. 

These contemporary artworks are 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 is at the Newbiggin Maritime Centre in Northumberland until 31st October 2020. Normal opening hours are 10am-5pm Tuesday to Saturday, and 11-5pm on Sundays.

The venue may be occasionally closed for special functions, so intending visitors should call 01670 811951 before travelling to confirm availability.

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

  • Monday 5th October 2020: 7:30pm – 9:00pm – Artist’s Talk and Circle Dance – Free Zoom Event  Karen Babayan shares the discoveries that inspired her exhibition, book, audiobook and playscript. Followed by the Circle of Life – a participatory circle dance by renowned dance artist Shakeh Major Tchilingirian. Bookings via the Armenian Institute here.