Hand-Painted Fish Ceramic Magnet with Armenian Motifs - Friendly Fish

Artisan Organization: Anush and Karo

Country: Armenia

"I come from a family deeply rooted in artistry, with my father as the driving force. His passion for woodwork, adorned with intricate engravings inspired by Armenian medieval architecture and manuscript art, left a profound imprint on me. My childhood was spent in his workshop, where I honed my skills in drawing, learning to discern the textures and personalities of various types of wood. I gradually became adept at crafting, lending a hand when my father's vision began to wane. Among the patterns I loved most were the majestic peacocks and the opulent leaf and floral designs. This early exposure fueled my curiosity, leading me to an art college, where I delved deeper into the arts of manuscript and carpet making. Subsequently, I embarked on a career as an art school teacher.

"My journey took an unexpected turn when I crossed paths with my future husband, Karo, a talented ceramic artist. He introduced me to the enchanting world of clay, and I was captivated by its delicate nature and limitless creative possibilities. I started my ceramic designs with painted earrings adorned with vibrant patterns, which quickly gained popularity at Vernissage, the renowned art market in Yerevan. As I grew more confident, I expanded my repertoire to include sculptures, embellished bells, ceramic wall art, and tea light holders. Animals have always held a special place in my heart, and I found great joy in sculpting them. They bring laughter, sweetness, and a touch of nostalgia to many homes, reminding us of the beauty of the animal kingdom.

"Working with clay is both a challenge and a reward. It demands unwavering patience, skill, and precision. The entire process, from preparation to sculpting, painting, firing, and cooling down, spans about two weeks. I'm fortunate to have the unwavering support of my husband, who assists with kiln management and technical aspects. Ceramic art is a constant journey of learning and experimentation. Above all, it's about infusing each piece with love and a unique touch, ensuring that those who acquire or adopt them experience a lasting sense of connection and distinctiveness.""