Exotic sports cars, art, and storytelling will race for your attention Thursday evening at the Armenian Museum of Fresno.

The nonprofit museum is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a free reception focusing on the work of Vasken Bedirian, an artist, former vintage race car driver, and author of “The Giulietta and the Romeos.”

His exhibit features images inspired by classic and exotic cars and the people and culture they inspire. The exhibition continues through July 31.

Born in Beirut and raised in Los Angeles, Bedirian worked after school at his father’s gas station, where he learned mechanics and restoration. As a teenager, he cruised Hollywood’s streets in his hopped-up 1970 Trans Am, exploring Sunset Boulevard, and the tight curves of Mulholland Drive. He says that these sparked a passion for racing and for art.

Bedirian later raced in regional and national vintage championships, while painting, collecting, and restoring classics, mostly European sports cars. After retiring, he settled in Pebble Beach, where he remains deeply involved in the automotive community, joining rallies along California’s coastal roads and mountain passes.

About the Armenian Museum of Fresno

Founded in 2001, the Armenian Museum of Fresno is dedicated to preserving and promoting Armenian culture, heritage, and history through exhibits, events, research, and educational programs.

The museum is at the University of California Center, 550 E. Shaw Ave., across from Fashion Fair. It is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is free.