A Night of Memory and Healing: Premiere of the Martuni, Artsakh Photo Book

scharchaf
2 days ago
2 min read

A few weeks ago, we shared the first preview images from an important project created by the people of Martuni, Artsakh. Today, we’re sharing the story behind the photographs.

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, Lorik Humanitarian Fund sponsored the printing of a powerful photo book of Martuni, created by its own residents.

These photos are not from years ago, nor from a peaceful time.They were taken on September 24, just days after the September 19 attack by Azerbaijan — and one day before the complete forced displacement of the Armenian population from Artsakh.

They captured what was still standing, what was about to be lost, and what people were trying desperately to hold onto. This book is a visual record of Martuni at the final moment before an entire community was uprooted.

A Gathering Filled With Emotion

At the premiere event, families from Martuni came together to view the photo book and reflect on their last days in their homeland. The room was filled with stories, tears, laughter, shared memories

Why This Project Matters

Our mission at Lorik Humanitarian Fund is centered on housing and stability for families forcibly displaced from Artsakh, but preserving identity and memory is also essential.

This project is important because:

It documents Martuni exactly as it was at the moment before exile
It preserves the final images taken by the people who lived there
It keeps the connection to the homeland alive
It supports emotional healing within the community
It ensures Artsakh is remembered truthfully and with dignity

These photos carry weight.They are the last visual chapter before a community was torn from its roots.

A Community Effort Created With Love and Courage

Our heartfelt thanks go to the photo book’s creators:@anee.photography & Վաչիկ Դադայան

For going out on September 24, amidst fear and uncertainty, to capture what they could — knowing the future was unknown.

And thank you to our supporters. Your generosity funded the printing, the event, and the continued preservation of Artsakh’s memory.

We Will Return Home

Healing is ongoing, and it will never be complete until there is justice, until our people can return to their native land.Projects like this keep that hope alive.

Martuni lives in every one of us.We will return home.