Gagik Antonyan

Artisan Organization: Gagik Antonyan

Country: Armenia

"My name is Gagik Antonyan and I’ve dedicated my life to preserving the artistry of my Armenian heritage through the intricate craft of woodcarving. Born in 1966, I grew up in post-Soviet Armenia—a time of rapid change, but also a period where our cultural roots remained a strong foundation. My journey is not just about personal achievement; it reflects the resilience and passion of Armenian craftsmen, whose work has endured for generations.

"My fascination with woodcarving began early, inspired by the natural textures and tones of wood, as well as the skillful hands of the artisans in my community. I attended School No. 57 and later School No. 177 in Yerevan, completing my secondary education in 1983. With a clear vision, I followed my artistic calling to Yerevan’s Technical Art School No. 8, where I enrolled in the woodcarving program. It was there that I truly honed my craft, learning from experienced mentors who instilled in me the precision, patience, and respect that woodcarving requires. By 1985, I graduated as a professional woodcarver, ready to bring my artistic vision to life.

"However, like many of my peers, my journey was interrupted by mandatory military service. After serving in the Soviet Army, I returned to Armenia with a newfound sense of discipline and determination. I began working as a woodcarver at a furniture manufacturing company, where I applied my skills to both functional and decorative pieces. This period was crucial for me, as I not only honed my technical abilities but also began infusing my work with Armenian motifs and traditional patterns. It was here that I began developing my unique style—an intricate fusion of Armenian heritage and contemporary aesthetics.

"In the early 1990s, my work took me beyond Armenia's borders to St. Petersburg, Russia, where I worked in a local furniture workshop from 1993 to 1995. Immersed in a new culture yet firmly connected to my Armenian roots, my woodcarving evolved. I absorbed new techniques and artistic influences while staying true to the essence of Armenian design. My attention to detail and commitment to cultural authenticity earned me recognition in the local artisan community in St. Petersburg.

"When I returned to Armenia in 1995, I reconnected with the country's rich artistic heritage. I collaborated with a souvenir shop in Etchmiadzin, Armenia’s spiritual heart, where I crafted wooden crosses and khachkars (stone crosses). These revered symbols of Armenian faith and resilience allowed me to deepen my connection to our sacred traditions. Each khachkar I carved became a story—an homage to Armenia’s spiritual legacy. This phase of my career marked a turning point, as I combined my technical expertise with a deep cultural narrative, infusing every piece with meaning and history.

"In 2005, I expanded my reach even further by moving to Moscow, where I worked in various furniture workshops and showcased my work at exhibitions dedicated to Armenian artisans across Russia. These exhibitions gave me a platform to display my finest pieces, and I quickly gained recognition for my skill and dedication. The intricate details of my work resonated deeply with both the Armenian and Russian communities, leading to numerous accolades and awards from the Armenian diaspora in Russia. These exhibitions not only solidified my reputation but also deepened my commitment to preserving Armenian culture through my art.

"From 2016 to 2024, I returned to St. Petersburg, where I worked as a woodcarver for a renowned furniture company. My work was celebrated by the Armenian community, who saw me as a cultural ambassador, someone carrying the spirit of Armenian craftsmanship across borders. During my time in Russia, I was honored with certificates of merit and medals from the Armenian community, a testament to my unwavering dedication to both my craft and my cultural heritage.

"Looking back on my decades-long journey, I see woodcarving as more than just a profession—it’s a form of storytelling, a way to pass on the soul of Armenia to future generations. Each piece I create, whether it’s an ornament, a cross, or a decorative carving, carries the essence of our history and culture. Through my hands, I aim to keep our traditions alive — evolving but always rooted in the spirit of Armenia.

"My story is a testament to the power of art to transcend borders. Woodcarving has been my lifelong dedication and a profound tribute to my heritage. Through my work, the ancient craft remains alive, evolving in its expression, yet unchanged in its core essence. It continues to inspire, bridging the past with the present, and connecting Armenia with the world.""