TV Presentation of Tsovinar Barkhudaryan’s “The Last Red Lipstick” (Video)

The main sponsor of the book is the “Amrots” National Development Foundation. Knarik Jalatyan, head of the foundation’s programs, explained why they chose to support two Artsakh-related books published by Newmag. The foundation operates based on four pillars: homeland, language, values, and faith. According to Jalatyan, this book aligns with the pillar of faith.

"The author recounts the tragic events, but ultimately says: ‘Let us repent, so that we may return.’ We see the mystery of repentance here. This is vital for all of us, those who remain on this side of the Hakari Bridge. We must reflect, understand what we have done, and what we must do moving forward. We knew this book was important, but after reading it, we were convinced of its exceptional significance.

This is not just the author’s personal story; it contains the voices of twelve other women from diverse backgrounds, each with unique destinies. Their stories deserve admiration. While the book begins with exile, it also carries hope for recovery. However, hope alone is not enough, there must also be responsibility. The author takes responsibility, contemplating what she can do to ensure a return to Artsakh."

The producer of “The Last Red Lipstick”, Artak Herikyan, shared how the witness testimonies in the book were originally featured in a television series before becoming a book.

"Every week on the “Akanates” program, Tsovinar told stories about the migration, the resilience, and the heroic years of Artsakh. When the program ended, we knew these stories had to be preserved in a book.

This book is a deeply moving documentary, capturing the experiences of a young Tsovinar who later became an Artsakh woman. Over time, its historical significance will only grow. It is a primary source, and we hope it will be translated into multiple languages.

Beyond its documentary value, the book is also a profound reflection on Armenian identity. Through its pages, we see the full spectrum of the Armenian character, from courageous heroism to heartbreaking betrayal.

Newmag Publishing House has once again demonstrated its principled and meticulous approach to publishing. Having collaborated with them before, I can confidently say they are dedicated to preserving stories that matter. The book launch was beautifully executed, and I sincerely hope they prioritize translating this book into other languages."

Tsovinar Barkhudaryan shared the deeply personal story behind the book’s title, which was inspired by a text message exchange between her and Artak Herikyan.

“On September 27, as I prepared for a TV broadcast, I realized I had only one lipstick left, red lipstick. I applied it and went on air to deliver heartbreaking news.

With stores closed, there was no way to buy another lipstick. Yet, people in Artsakh kept telling me: ‘We want to see you with red lipstick, it gives us hope.’ Eventually, I messaged Artak, saying, ‘My red lipstick is running out’—but what I really meant was that my hope was running out.

When I arrived in Armenia, people kept giving me red lipstick as gifts. And I started wearing it again, this time, as a symbol of hope and resilience."

According to Tsovinar Barkhudaryan, she and her compatriots never had time to process their grief, to say goodbye, or to cry. The conversations recorded in this book gave many of them a chance to finally mourn.

“The Last Red Lipstick” is the first documentary account of Artsakh’s final years, providing an unfiltered look at forced migration, displacement, and the loss of homeland. Through the voices of those who lived it, the book ensures that their stories will never be forgotten.