Armen Tovmasyan

Artisan Organization: Armen Tovmasyan

Country: Armenia

"My name is Armen, and my journey into leatherworking began during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the world coming to a standstill, I found myself searching for a way to stay productive and creative while being confined to my home. Little did I know that this pursuit would ignite a passion that had always lingered in the back of my mind.

"Leatherworking had always intrigued me, but life's busy pace had never allowed me the luxury of pursuing it as a hobby. However, the pandemic provided an unexpected gift - time.

"Like many, I turned to resources on the internet. Countless videos and online tutorials became my mentors, guiding me through this ancient art. Armed with a beginner's knowledge, I took the plunge and bought leather and tools to bring my ideas to life.

"The initial steps were hard as I struggled with shaping and molding leather but I dedicated myself to countless hours of practice. There were lots of trials and errors, but each misstep only deepened my interest to master this craft.

"As I honed my skills, my creations took shape, and my confidence increased. I wanted to offer an alternative to mass-produced goods - something with the soul of a creator's touch. I believed that handmade goods carried a timeless value, representing a connection to heritage and craftsmanship.

"I launched my collection and ventured into local markets and the response was overwhelming. To my delight, people were willing to invest in the artistry behind each piece, recognizing the value of owning something crafted with love and dedication.

"I feel a deep connection to my homeland, Armenia, and its rich history of leatherworking. Armenia has a tradition of leather craftsmanship, dating back centuries. Skilled artisans have passed down their knowledge through generations, preserving the art form. I feel a responsibility to honor this heritage.

"The road has not been easy with many challenges and sacrifices. Yet, I can confidently say it has been the most rewarding challenge of my life. The satisfaction of seeing my creations appreciated by customers and the knowledge that I am contributing to preserving an ancient art form makes me happy." "