The newly launched Shushi Art Project presented its first public event, a benefit concert held in Los Angeles on January 15. Featuring Vahagni and his band, the sold-out “Solitude” concert took place at Hollywood’s Barnsdall Gallery Theatre.

An award-winning guitarist and composer, Vahagni led his flamenco-jazz ensemble (including pianist Vardan Ovsepian, cellist Artyom Manukyan, percussionist Zach Harmon, bassist Hamilton Price, and guest percussionist Geraldo Morales) to deliver a set of original compositions and folk arrangements. Much of the material was culled from Vahagni’s forthcoming album, Solitude.

Proceeds from the concert will benefit “Land & Technology,” the Shushi Art Project’s showcase event for 2012, said executive director Harry Vorperian. An international festival of contemporary art, “Land & Technology” will be held in Shushi, Republic of Nagorno Karabakh, from October 1 through 14, featuring the works of over 15 visual artists from the United States, Europe and Armenia, Asbarez reported.