Glazed Red and Brown Ceramic Mug Pair Handcrafted in Armenia - Red Awakening

Artisan Organization: Sargis Margaryan

Country: Armenia

"My name is Sargis Margaryan, and I come from Arazap village in the Armavir region of Armenia—a place where tradition, culture, and the spirit of art are deeply rooted in the land. Growing up, I was surrounded by stories and customs that shaped my identity, and I learned early on to appreciate the value of craft and creativity. My journey in art began with a simple education at the local secondary school, where I discovered a budding interest in creating things with my hands. But it wasn’t until I encountered pottery, an ancient and revered art form, that I felt I had found my true calling.

"Pottery came into my life with the guidance of my brother, who shared his passion and knowledge with me. What started as a hobby soon transformed into a pursuit that consumed my thoughts and energy. I was captivated by the process of working with clay—from molding raw earth into shapes to watching them take form, each piece a reflection of my own growth and exploration. During my school years, I dove deeply into the world of clay, taking every opportunity to learn, experiment, and refine my craft. As I studied this art form, I realized that pottery was not only about shaping objects but also about preserving stories, traditions, and memories within each piece.

"Over the years, my dedication to pottery grew, and my skills evolved. Through persistent effort, countless hours, and a constant drive to learn, I reached a level of mastery that allowed me to express both the rich heritage of Armenian culture and the innovative spirit of modern design. Every piece I create is an homage to Armenia’s traditions, yet it also holds a touch of contemporary thought, bridging the past with the present. My work is a way for me to communicate Armenia’s story to the world, to showcase its beauty, resilience, and spirit in a way that resonates with people from all walks of life.

"Today, I feel I am at the beginning of an exciting journey, one that extends beyond my own creative path. My vision is to establish a pottery workshop that serves not only as my studio but also as a place for learning, inspiration, and cultural preservation. I want this workshop to become a creative hub where people can come to learn the art of pottery, discover their own talents, and contribute to the rich tapestry of Armenian art. I envision a place where seasoned artisans, beginners, and curious minds can gather, share ideas, and celebrate the legacy of Armenian culture while adding their own voices to it.

"In every work I create, I strive to capture the harmony between tradition and innovation. Pottery, in my eyes, is more than a craft—it is a medium through which I can keep our cultural roots alive, while also embracing the evolving perspectives of the present day. I find immense joy and purpose in merging these worlds, creating pieces that feel timeless yet relevant. My goal is not only to produce art but also to inspire others, to teach them about the importance of our heritage, and to encourage them to create something meaningful with their own hands.

"For me, pottery is not simply a means of artistic expression but a mission. It is a way to ensure that Armenian culture continues to thrive, that our traditions remain vibrant and that future generations feel a connection to their past while embracing the future. I am honored to share my journey with you and to invite you into the world of Armenian pottery, where each piece tells a story, and every creation is a step toward preserving our heritage.""