Hand-Painted Red Linden Tree Wood Figurine (Medium) - Passion Message

Artisan Organization: Hayk Mesropyan

Country: Armenia

"I am Hayk Mesropyan, and my journey into the world of woodworking and craftsmanship began in 1991, in the charming city of Vagharshapat, Armenia. Our family's rich tradition of craftsmanship traces back generations, with my father as the torchbearer of this noble heritage. He spent years honing his skills through meticulous woodworking, and I was fortunate to grow up in an environment where creativity and craftsmanship thrived.

"From a young age, I was drawn to the art of woodworking like a moth to a flame. The sound of chisels shaping wood, the scent of freshly cut timber, and the feel of smooth, polished surfaces became an integral part of my life. My father's expertise inspired me, and I eagerly soaked up every lesson and technique he shared with me.

"One of the distinctive aspects of our craft is our specialization in creating intricate pomegranate designs. The pomegranate holds a special place in Armenian culture, symbolizing fertility, abundance, and longevity. Its significance is deeply ingrained in our traditions, and I saw an opportunity to channel this cultural significance into our woodworking. Crafting intricate pomegranate designs on various wooden items became our signature, a way to pay homage to our heritage and showcase our artistic prowess.

"As my father and I worked side by side, we started to gain recognition for our unique wooden creations. People from all corners of Armenia sought us out for custom-made pieces adorned with our intricate pomegranate designs. Our work became more than just a profession; it was a way to connect with our roots and share the beauty of Armenian culture with the world.

"However, our journey was not without its challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic cast a dark shadow over our small business, as it did for countless others around the globe. The restrictions and economic uncertainties that came with the pandemic hit us hard. It forced us to adapt and find new ways to sustain our craft. We turned to online platforms to showcase our creations, offering custom-made wooden items to customers worldwide. It was a daunting shift, but it allowed us to stay afloat during these challenging times.

"But the challenges did not end with the pandemic. Armenia's ongoing conflict with Azerbaijan added another layer of uncertainty and difficulty to our lives. The war deeply affected our region, disrupting daily life, displacing families, and causing economic instability. Our workshop faced delays in acquiring materials, and the safety concerns made it difficult for us to focus on our craft.

"Despite these challenges, my passion for woodworking and preserving Armenian culture remains unwavering. We continue to create wooden masterpieces adorned with intricate pomegranate designs, bridging the past and the present through our craft. It is a testament to our resilience and determination to keep our traditions alive, no matter the circumstances.

"Today, our workshop stands as a symbol of hope and perseverance. We are proud to have brought a piece of Armenian culture to homes around the world through our unique creations. While the road has been tough, I believe that through dedication, creativity, and a deep love for our craft, we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way. In every intricately carved pomegranate design, I see the resilience of our people and the enduring spirit of Armenian craftsmanship.""