By Molly Sword
On Saturday, October 19th, popular Korean Restaurant, Seoul Bystro, is hosting an art show featuring the work of talented artist, Jiro Tcholakian.
Guests will enjoy an interactive experience of Tcholakian’s showcase of artworks while feasting on popular Seoul Bystro items like the Kimchi Burger, Jjapaghetti, Bystro Sushi Roll, and much more.
Each of Jiro’s works reflects a certain feeling that he aims to evoke in the viewer, a style of abstract emotionalism that comes from a place of determination to present feelings through art. Jiro believes that artwork should be more than the mind trying to decipher what is being viewed but the feelings, memories and inspiration that come from within the work.
For Jiro, art has been a transformative experience in several ways, what started as a form of therapy while having a two-year serious illness became a lifestyle and passion. As a former photographer, he had experience in the arts but through direct painting, he has become more in touch with certain feelings and expressions of self. The most miraculous discovery that came from his artwork was his increased ability to see more colours, formally colour-blind and struggling to decipher between yellows and greens, a year into his painting he began to see a full-colour spectrum.
Jiro’s heritage also plays a large part in his artwork, originally from Beruit, Lebanon, his family has a dark history as survivors of the Armenian genocide. The genocide, which has never been formally apologised for, is remembered through his family’s stories, such as how his grandfather was forced to see his father’s execution at only 8 years of age. The feelings Jiro conveys come from a variety of places but also reflect the devastation of his family’s history. However, as an optimist Jiro aims that from the hate there can be love stating “the best place to see the light is when it is dark”.
Seoul Bystro is also one of Jiro’s favoured restaurants, he even organized the art show over lunch after owner, Gerald Won, asked why he had paint on his nose. Jiro says he visits Seoul Bystro for the “good vibes and energy” but stays for the spicy sushi rolls which he claimed are a must-have item.
Jiro’s showcase of artwork this Saturday night will be an emotive and culturally enhancive experience for all those who attend. And with delicious food and drink at Seoul Bistro, it will be a spectacular combination for all the senses.
Seoul Bystro is located at 43-10 Queens Blvd. in Sunnyside, Queens.
