Ishkhan Harutyunyan

Artisan Organization: Ishkhan Harutyunyan

Country: Armenia

"I'm Ishkhan Harutyunyan, and my journey as a craftsman began unexpectedly during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a member of the Yerevan State Jazz Orchestra, my life had always been filled with music, but the pandemic forced me to stay home and reevaluate how I could spend my time creatively. It was during this period of reflection that I discovered a long-buried passion: woodworking.

"Growing up, I had always been fascinated by the art of crafting things from wood. The feel of the grain under my fingers, the smell of freshly cut timber, and the transformative process of turning a raw piece of wood into something beautiful and functional were experiences that lingered in my memories. However, it wasn’t until I learned CNC programming that I realized I could reignite this childhood fascination and channel it into something tangible.

"With my newfound skills, I began to craft handmade wooden products, initially focusing on creating food-safe items for children. My first creations were wooden plates designed specifically for kids, and I took great care to ensure they met food safety standards. This attention to detail paid off when I received positive feedback from family and friends, which motivated me to expand my offerings. As demand grew, so did my ambition.

"This evolution led to the birth of my workshop, WoodWide. My workshop is a manifestation of my passion for woodworking and my commitment to producing high-quality, handcrafted wooden kitchenware, tables, home décor, and wood accessories. I take pride in ensuring that each piece is not only beautiful but also functional and safe for everyday use.

"Every product I create is thoughtfully designed and crafted with care. From safe and stylish children's plates to custom kitchen items, I strive to offer unique, high-quality wooden products that resonate with my customers. I believe that every piece of wood has its own story to tell, and I aim to honor that story through my craftsmanship.

"As I continue to grow my workshop, my goal is to connect with others who appreciate the beauty of handmade items and the warmth of wood in their homes. I want my creations to be more than just functional; I want them to be cherished pieces that bring joy and a sense of connection to those who use them.

"In a world that often feels hurried and impersonal, I hope to remind people of the simple pleasures found in handcrafted items. Each wooden piece from my workshop represents a blend of artistry and functionality, making it a perfect addition to any kitchen or home.""