Hand-Carved Floral Beech Wood Cross Sculpture from Armenia - Portrait of Divinity

Artisan Organization: Artashes Sarkhoshyan

Country: Armenia

"My name is Arsen Sarkhoshyan. Born into a family of artisans in the heart of Yerevan, my journey as a sculptor began long before I even picked up a chisel. Surrounded by the sights and sounds of creativity from an early age, I was captivated by the artistry that seemed to flow effortlessly from my father's skilled hands. As a young boy, I would spend hours watching him transform blocks of wood into exquisite sculptures, each one a testament to his passion and dedication to his craft.

"Growing up in Armenia, a land steeped in history and tradition, I was instilled with a deep appreciation for the arts and the rich cultural heritage of my homeland. From the ancient monasteries nestled in the rugged mountains to the intricate carvings adorning the churches and cathedrals, I was surrounded by reminders of Armenia's artistic legacy at every turn.

"My formal education followed a conventional path, attending school until the 9th grade before enrolling in college. However, my heart was never fully invested in my studies. Instead, I found myself drawn to the world of sculpting, longing to follow in my father's footsteps and carve out my own creative path.

"At the age of 18, I made the decision to pursue my passion for sculpting wholeheartedly. Leaving college behind, I embarked on a journey of apprenticeship under my father's guidance. Under his watchful eye, I learned the fundamentals of woodworking, mastering the techniques of shaping wood into works of art.

"In 2020, Armenia was thrust into a period of turmoil as conflict erupted in the region. Like many young men of my generation, I felt a deep sense of duty to defend my homeland. Joining the Armenian army, I was thrust into the crucible of war, where I witnessed the true cost of conflict firsthand. For 44 days, I fought alongside my fellow soldiers, facing adversity with courage and determination. The experience left an indelible mark on my soul, shaping me in ways I could never have imagined. When the war finally came to an end, I returned home with a newfound sense of purpose, determined to channel my experiences into my art.

"Back in my father's workshop, I immersed myself in my craft with renewed vigor. Drawing inspiration from the resilience of my people and the timeless beauty of Armenia's landscapes, I poured my heart and soul into each sculpture I created. Guided by the spirit of my ancestors, I began to focus my efforts on crafting wooden crosses, symbols of faith and hope that hold a special significance in Armenian culture. Today, as I continue to hone my skills as a sculptor, I remain deeply connected to my roots and committed to preserving Armenia's artistic heritage. With each piece I create, I strive to honor the traditions of the past while embracing the possibilities of the future, forging a path forward as a custodian of Armenia's artistic legacy.""