Listening to the Paintings of Serj Tankian

Serj Tankian, the frontman of the iconic band System of a Down, has ventured into the realm of abstract painting, creating works that resonate with genuine emotional depth. His paintings, characterized by intricate layers and a limited palette, stir feelings that are often difficult to articulate. Tankian’s art transforms dramatically when paired with original music compositions he creates specifically for each piece.

“Music and visual art are extensions of the same essence, for me,” Tankian explained in a statement to Hyperallergic. “Painting is a form of composition, and composing music feels like painting. They influence each other in ways that are beyond verbal expression.”

The Armenian Museum of America in Watertown, Massachusetts, has opened the doors to a new exhibition titled The Art of Disruption: The Art and Impact of Serj Tankian, showcasing his works through February. This exhibition features a collection of Tankian’s original abstract paintings, along with accompanying musical clips, video installations, poetry, and various artifacts.

Exhibition attendees can enhance their viewing experience by downloading the Arloopa app, which Tankian co-developed with an Armenian designer. With the app, they can scan each painting to hear orchestral arrangements that complement the visual art. The compositions vary from one to twenty-four minutes, most aligning with the length of a typical pop song.

Jason Sohigian, the museum’s executive director, remarked to Hyperallergic, “Museums usually offer a quiet experience. However, with these musical compositions accompanying the artwork, attendees can immerse themselves in a multisensory experience.”

Tankian’s desire to combine music with visual art is not a new concept for him. Although he initially contemplated composing for other artists’ works, only the synergy between his music and personal paintings brought him joy.

“One day, I thought, ‘I have this composition, and I want to paint. How can I bring this together?’ Thankfully, I liked my first painting. Otherwise, I might not have continued,” Tankian confessed.

The Armenian Museum has been a platform for contemporary artists who reinterpret the narratives surrounding the Armenian diaspora, particularly the lasting effects of the genocide that continues to resonate today.

Tankian’s journey with the museum began in 2011 when he encountered Jack Kevorkian’s artwork, an experience that ignited deeper discussions with Sohigian about his own artistic pursuits, which later evolved into his memoir, Down with the System (2024).

Sohigian elaborated, “Serj began painting and published his memoir, offering insights into his life and musical journey. He even launched a gallery in Los Angeles that showcased his work and has exhibited in New Zealand as well.”

Ryann Casey, a New Jersey-based artist who curated this exhibition, noted Tankian’s focus on the interconnectedness of his poetry, music, and visual art. She shared, “Curating for musicians is a rare opportunity. With my strong ties to Armenian history, witnessing the narrative expressed through these three distinct mediums was an intriguing challenge.”

While Tankian’s art isn’t explicitly political, it subtly reflects themes of genocide awareness, environmental advocacy, and cultural identity, illustrated in titles such as “Music Is a Doorway to the Truth,” “Ethnic Cause,” and “Violent Violins.” His poetry delves into the connections between his activism and a yearning for serenity.

“None of us have shied away from activism,” said Casey. “I hope visitors interpret these pieces through diverse lenses.”