On Wednesday afternoon, the art world mourns the passing of several influential figures, including Yervant Gianikian (1942–2026), Jerry Moriarty (1938–2026), and others. Their contributions to art and culture have left an indelible mark, shaping the creative landscape for generations to come.
Yervant Gianikian: A Cinematic Visionary
Yervant Gianikian, an Armenian-Italian filmmaker and artist, passed away in 2026 at the age of 84. Known for his poignant explorations of themes like European colonialism and personal tributes, his notable works include From the Pole to the Equator (1986), Prisoners of War (1995), and Angela's Diaries – The Two of Us, Filmmakers (2018–26). Alongside his late partner, Angela Ricci Lucchi, he was a pivotal force in cinema during the latter half of the 20th century.
His contributions were recognized globally, with his work displayed in prestigious institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art and the Tate Modern. Gianikian was awarded the Golden Lion for the Armenian pavilion at the 2015 Venice Biennale.
Jerry Moriarty: The Paintoonist
Jerry Moriarty, known as the "Paintoonist," was a celebrated painter, cartoonist, and educator. He was born in 1938 and passed away in 2026. Moriarty gained fame for his comic series Jack Survives (1980), which debuted in Art Spiegelman's magazine Raw (1980–91). His unique style combined elements of painting and cartooning, captivating audiences across various platforms.
