As you sit down with Armenian painter Lusik Aguletsi’s family—the artist was often called the Van Gogh of Armenia—sipping warm mountain tea, the room becomes filled with conversations, memories and stories of a woman who has left an indelible mark on the country’s culture. Lusik, survived by her daughter Astghik Samvelyan and son Armen Aguletsi, continues to live on in the hearts of her family and the city of Yerevan. “Yerevan isn’t just a place on a map, it’s a heartbeat, a feeling of belonging,” Armen explains.
Yerevan, a city constantly evolving, once had the steady presence of Aguletsi. She would walk through the capital in traditional Armenian garments, each piece handcrafted, representing a deep connection to her heritage. But Lusik’s creativity extended far beyond clothing.
She designed belts, jewellery, furniture, and décor, transforming her home into what many visitors now call ‘Armenia in one room’. Today, this house stands as a museum, a living memory of the artist’s life, where every corner is filled with traditional furniture, rugs, sculptures and dolls. Lusik lived here until her passing in 2018, and the family continues to preserve her legacy in every detail of the space.
In 2012, the state proposed turning the home into a museum due to its historical significance. The museum, now a reflection of Armenian heritage, offers visitors a chance to experience what life once was in this ancient land. “When visitors walk through, they experi.