Organized on September 11 by Côte d’Azur Habitat and the city hall of Nice, an urban mural of Missak and Mélinée Manouchian was inaugurated at the Madeleine-Vieux residence. These two major figures of the Resistance during World War II were inducted into the Panthéon in 2024.
This Thursday, September 11, the municipal authorities of Nice and the housing provider Côte d’Azur Habitat inaugurated a vast mural in honor of Missak and Mélinée Manouchian at the Madeleine-Vieux residence. Over more than 150 hours, Romain, nicknamed Artmor1, a self-taught artist from Nice, used a stencil system to paint while layering different color coats.
“When I was offered the project, I was very honored to do it. These are two Armenian resistors who fought for France. I had to ensure I gave the best of myself. Then, I see the impact it has on the people around,” confided the artist Artmor1.
“I initially had a negative opinion because it was on a poster. When I discussed it and saw the artist at work, he managed to touch me deeply. So, I changed my opinion,” commented Fatima, a resident of the residence.
A gesture towards the Armenian community
Initiated by the city of Nice, the mural aims, according to the municipal authorities, to support the Armenian community. The city hall believes that through this artistic project, it reaffirms its connection with this community.
Supported by the primary housing provider of the Alpes-Maritimes, Côte d’Azur Habitat, the cost of the artwork amounts to €12,000. According to the organization, the mural is designed to be durable and preserve the vibrancy of the colors. Many people who came from Armenia settled in Nice between 1920 and 1924, in response to persecution and genocide. Through the work of a committed artist, the people of Nice do not forget and remain united with this people, who are an integral part of Nice’s heritage. Thanks to this mural, history will endure, never to be forgotten.
