Elene Akhvlediani (1898-1975), illustrious Georgian painter, graphic artist, and theater decorator. Born in the beautiful town of Telavi, the artist is famous for her depictions of Georgian towns, for illustrations for the works of the famous Georgian writers Ilia Chavchavadze and Vazha-Pshavela, and for designing plays in Marjanishvili Theater. 

The artist refined her skills and broadened her horizons first in Italy and then in Paris Art Academy. While living in France, Akhvlediani spent a lot of time with her friends and renowned artists Ketevan Maghalashvili, Lado Gudiashvili and David Kakabadze. She took part in a number of group exhibitions and launched her personal show as well, which, along with other beholders, was also viewed by Pablo Picasso, who was deeply impressed with Akhvlediani’s painting “Kakheti, Winter”. 

After returning home, the artist established ‘Little Georgia’ in her studio, attracting art-lovers and housing a variety of cultural events, concerts, personal and group exhibitions. At present, it is the house-museum of the artist, bringing together over 3,000 items related to her life and art, including pictorial and graphic artworks, theatrical sketches, costumes, book illustrations, photographs, and personal archives. The museum is located at # 12 L. Kiacheli Street. 

Elene Akhvlediani, or simply Elichka, was an iconic figure of the 20th century, who, apart from catching ‘true Tbilisi’ in her paintings, cared a lot about the image of Old Tbilisi and added her contribution to preserving numerous historical buildings.