Through my art, I aim to preserve and honor our cultural heritage, while also creating something beautiful and timeless for others to appreciate.
"I, Armen Malkhasyan, was born on February 20, 1966, in Yerevan, Armenia. From a young age, I was fascinated by the... beauty of craftsmanship, particularly the way wood could be transformed into something both functional and artistic. Growing up in a city steeped in history and culture, I was constantly inspired by the architecture around me, especially the timeless beauty of Armenian churches, which are symbols of spiritual and cultural significance for our people.
"In 1973, I began my formal education at Demirchyan’s school, where my love for woodworking truly took root. During my last two years there, I had the opportunity to attend a manufacturing plant as part of an apprenticeship program. This hands-on experience allowed me to learn the intricate details of woodworking and wood carving. It was here that I realized how much potential wood has as a medium—not just for creating furniture or everyday items but for capturing deeper, more meaningful expressions of our heritage and history.
"After finishing school, I decided to pursue a different path and enrolled in an economics program at the institute. I believed at the time that this would provide a stable career and a way to support my family. After completing my studies, I joined a furniture wholesale base where I worked as a product specialist. Over the years, I took on more responsibility, eventually becoming the head of the department and later, the deputy director. I gained valuable experience in business management, logistics, and leadership, but something was missing—my heart was always drawn back to the world of craftsmanship.
"In 1999, I made a pivotal decision to return to my true passion: woodworking and wood carving. It was a leap of faith, but I felt compelled to follow my creative instincts. I began focusing on what had always inspired me the most—the stunning architecture of Armenian churches. These churches, with their unique and unrepeatable designs, are monuments to Armenia's rich history and spiritual legacy. I sought to capture their essence in wood, to give them life in a new and tangible way that people could experience in their homes.
"What makes my work special is the deep connection I feel to each piece. Every church I carve is not just a structure; it tells a story, represents centuries of tradition, and embodies the resilience of the Armenian people. My goal is to infuse each carving with the soul of the church, allowing the wood to breathe new life into these ancient monuments. Through my art, I aim to preserve and honor our cultural heritage, while also creating something beautiful and timeless for others to appreciate.
"Over the years, my work has grown, and I’ve had the privilege of sharing my creations with people from all over the world. Each piece I make is unique, as no two churches are alike. The process of woodworking and carving is one that requires patience, precision, and an unwavering dedication to the craft. I believe that by continuing to focus on these principles, I can bring a piece of Armenia’s history to life for those who appreciate the beauty of hand-carved art."