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In the spring of 2022, a new chapter began for the Yerevan Biennial Art Foundation with the unveiling of A1 Art Space—a contemporary gallery nestled in the very heart of Yerevan, inside a 19th-century historical building on Abovyan Street.

The name A1—at once minimalist and symbolic—was envisioned by YBAF founder Fabio Lenzi as both a nod to the gallery's central address and a bold declaration: this is page one, a fresh beginning in the Foundation’s evolving narrative.

A1 Art Space: Opening Chapter

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The inaugural exhibition brought together works by a group of Armenian artists whose practices traverse mediums and generations:

Arthur Hakobyan, Ashot Avagyan, Gayane Abetisyan, Haik Mesropian, Marina Hagopian, Mary Badalian, Narine Vardanyan, Sam Saghatelian, and Sirin Anoush.
Their presence marked the beginning not only of a space, but of a statement—one that embraces Armenia’s artistic diversity and repositions it within an ever-shifting cultural dialogue.

“Each new space, a new dimension we enter or leave, brings chaos into the narrative of our life.
But however terrifying the Chaos may seem, it is more of a test—challenging your limits, your sense of presence, and your ability to make choices.”
— Exhibition note

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The gallery opening reflected YBAF’s larger mission: to create a living platform for dialogue, experimentation, and engagement with both local and international currents. As a young foundation established in 2019, YBAF continues to foster artistic connections across disciplines, media, and generations.

This opening was not simply an event—it was a gesture of intent. A threshold crossed. A scene set.