Rainbow-Accented Brown and Green Adjustable Leather Backpack - Dapper Rainbow

Artisan Organization: Mihran Poghosyan

Country: Armenia

"My name is Mihran Poghosyan, and I was born on January 7, 1981, in the vibrant city of Gyumri, once called Leninakan. Growing up in a place known for its resilience and rich artistic culture, I was surrounded by creative inspiration from a young age. My family has a long-standing tradition in leatherworking and shoemaking, a craft passed down from my grandfathers for nearly a century and a half. Watching them work with their hands, transforming raw leather into beautifully crafted goods, sparked a fascination in me that would last a lifetime. Leatherworking began as a cherished hobby, but over time, it became much more than that—it became my calling.

"After graduating high school in 1997, I pursued a degree in engineering at the State University of Georgia. I earned my bachelor's degree in 2001, and soon after, I served in the military, where I developed discipline and resilience. But no matter where life took me, my family’s craft was always in my thoughts. Working with my hands provided a sense of fulfillment that nothing else could match, and even during my service, I dreamed of finding a way to honor and preserve the legacy of Armenian leather craftsmanship.

"Once I returned to civilian life in 2003, I joined HETS LLC as an employee within the General Staff, where I learned essential management and organizational skills. Later, I became head of energy at Armamast LLC, where I gained invaluable insights into running a business. Although I enjoyed my work, the passion for leatherworking never faded. In my free time, I continued to create small leather items for family and friends, each piece a reminder of the artistry and skill my family had passed down.

"In 2012, I made the decision to transform my lifelong passion into a full-time endeavor. Drawing on both my engineering background and my experience with leatherworking, I established a workshop dedicated to crafting high-quality leather shoes and accessories. I built a team of skilled artisans who shared my dedication to craftsmanship, and together, we focused on creating products that combined traditional Armenian artistry with modern functionality.

"In my workshop, each leather item is crafted with care and attention to detail. From shoes to bags to finely detailed accessories, each piece tells a story of heritage and artistry. For me, the true beauty of leatherworking lies in the process itself, from sourcing the finest materials to working by hand to create something both durable and beautiful. I am committed to honoring the legacy of my grandfathers by carrying on this craft with integrity and respect for the materials.

"Every piece that comes from our workshop is a product of patience, passion, and precision. We aim to create items that not only serve a purpose but also carry with them the spirit and resilience of Armenian craftsmanship. When people purchase our creations, they are taking home a piece of our story, a tangible connection to a tradition that has been carefully passed down through generations.

"As an artisan, I believe that leatherworking is more than just a profession—it is a way to connect with our heritage and keep a piece of history alive. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share this craft with others, and I am proud to see our work appreciated by those who value authenticity and quality.

"This journey has taught me that following one's passion brings true fulfillment. Every piece we create carries with it a part of my family’s legacy, and I am honored to share that legacy with the world, preserving our heritage through craftsmanship and artistry for generations to come.""