YEREVAN, AUGUST 26, ARMENPRESS. Molly Fannon, Director of International Relations at Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C., speaking to the Voice of America Armenian service, said Armenia has a rich culture, Massis Post reported.

In her view, however, this is not only the cultural masterpieces, but the people’s lifestyle, oral stories, dance, and food.

The Smithsonian Institution studies Armenia’s ancient and rich culture, and endeavors to preserve it and convey to the world. To this end, the Smithsonian Institution has launched the “My Armenia” project, with US government funding and in collaboration with the Government of Armenia.

The working theme for the 2018 Smithsonian Folklife Festival is “creative and cultural industries.” Currently, discussions are underway about participation of artisans from Armenia, among other countries. By way of background, the Festival is a ten-day exposition of cultural heritage held each summer on the National Mall in Washington D.C. Founded in 1967, to date the Festival has presented more than 30,000 musicians, dancers, artisans, cooks and more from over 100 nations, regions, and occupations. Visit http://festival.si.edu for more information.

Fannon added that they also wish to develop Armenia’s cultural sector by linking it to tourism, and create new jobs in cultural tourism.

Molly Fannon noted that their respective objective is to bring new tourists to Armenia, who will spend most of their time outside capital city Yerevan, and get familiarized with the Armenian folk cultural heritage.

Furthermore, this project plans to digitize—in 3D format—the masterpieces of Armenian culture and history.