New Exhibition Unveils 400-Year Journey of Exiled Fereydani Georgians
A new exhibition will explore the history of Fereydani Georgians, a community forcibly deported to Iran over 400 years ago. Opening on 6 June, the project delves into their enduring cultural ties and the emotional weight of displacement. The show runs from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at its launch event. The roots of the exhibition trace back to the early 17th century, when Fereydani Georgians were uprooted from their homeland. Settling in Iran’s Isfahan province, they preserved their language and traditions for generations. Their story first drew wider attention in 1894, when Georgian researcher Lado Aghniashvili travelled to Iran to document these lost communities.
At the heart of the project is a recorded conversation about clouds—a simple yet powerful symbol of longing. One resident’s mother spoke of a lifelong yearning to see Georgia’s mountains again, a sentiment echoed across the community. These personal stories form the emotional core of the work. Artist Grigalashvili, known for deep explorations of regional identity, shaped the exhibition around themes of memory and isolation. The project examines how cultural bonds persist despite centuries of separation. It also reflects on the quiet resilience of a people holding onto their heritage in a foreign land.
The exhibition will bring together historical research, oral testimonies, and artistic reflection. Visitors can engage with the Fereydani Georgians’ journey from 6 June, starting with the evening opening. Their four-century story of survival and connection will be on full display.
