Welcome to a captivating journey through the vibrant landscapes of creativity, culture, and history in Slanted’s Special Issue Georgia/Armenia.

In August 2023, a team, including Lars Harmsen, Markus Lange, and Rene Wawrzkiewicz, embarked on a journey from Tbilisi, Georgia, to Yerevan, Armenia. Along the way, they delved into the studios of numerous designers and artists, unearthing the rich tapestry of talent that defines these two distinct yet interconnected nations. In the heart of the Caucasus, both Tbilisi and Yerevan emerge as beacons of creativity, diversity, and intelligence. Despite sharing a common border, each city resonates with its unique character, offering a kaleidoscope of experiences.

Wojciech Górecki, an analyst at the Centre for Eastern Studies in Warsaw, provides a brilliant introduction to Georgia, highlighting its geographical position in Asia while underscoring its historical ties to Europe. From independent principalities to a united Georgian kingdom, Górecki paints a vivid picture of a nation shaped by a rich history, autonomy in the Orthodox Church, and the influential role of women, exemplified by the remarkable Queen Tamara.

The stories of Tbilisi and Yerevan intertwine with geopolitical significance, shaping the South Caucasus region. Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital, stands as a geopolitical hub, its history marked by Russian influence and the 2008 war over South Ossetia and Abkhazia. Georgia’s aspirations for EU and NATO membership, coupled with ongoing territorial disputes with Russia, define Tbilisi’s resilience and quest for independence, making it a pivotal player in regional politics.

Turning our attention to Armenia, Krzysztof Strachota, Head of the Turkey, Caucasus, and Central Asia Department at the Centre for Eastern Studies, sheds light on the complexities of a country often overlooked on the map. Armenia, nestled between Russia, Iran, and Turkey, faces the ongoing reality of an undeclared war with Azerbaijan, culminating in the mass exodus of 100,000 Armenians in the fall of 2023, and ending with the dissolution of the self-declared Armenian Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh.

Against the backdrop of Mount Ararat, Yerevan, Armenia’s capital, bears witness to the intricate dynamics of the South Caucasus. Armenia’s ongoing struggle for independence and the persistent conflict with Azerbaijan shape the geopolitics of the former Soviet republic.