Nadezhda Sargsyan

Artisan Organization: Nadezhda Sargsyan

Country: Armenia

"I am Nadezhda Sargsyan, and I was born in the picturesque village of Taghaser, in the Hadrut region of Artsakh. Growing up in this serene and culturally rich environment deeply influenced my appreciation for art and craftsmanship. My early years were filled with the vibrant traditions of my homeland, and it was here that my love for design and creativity took root.

"After completing my primary education, I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in the arts. With the support of my family, I moved to Yerevan to further my studies. I enrolled in a prestigious institution, where I received formal training as a model designer and designer. My time in Yerevan was transformative, providing me with the technical skills and artistic vision needed to excel in my chosen field.

"In 2002, after completing my education, I returned to Artsakh and joined the Hadrut Children's and Youth Creative Center as a group leader. This role was incredibly rewarding, as it allowed me to share my knowledge and passion for design with the younger generation. I found immense joy in nurturing their creativity and helping them develop their skills. Over time, I was promoted to the position of deputy director, where I took on greater responsibilities and had a broader impact on the center's activities.

"My work in embroidery and design did not go unnoticed. I received various awards from the Ministry of Artsakh, recognizing my contributions to the field of embroidery. These accolades were a testament to my dedication and skill, but more importantly, they reaffirmed my belief in the power of art to enrich our lives and preserve our cultural heritage.

"Embroidery, for me, is more than just a craft; it is a way to connect with my roots and express my identity. I have mastered almost all genres of embroidery and needlework, from traditional Armenian patterns to more contemporary designs. Additionally, I have explored batik, a technique of wax-resist dyeing applied to fabric, and clothing karma, a unique method of garment decoration. Each project I undertake is a journey of discovery, pushing the boundaries of my creativity and skill.

"In 2020, my life took an unexpected turn. The political conflict in Artsakh led to the forced displacement of my family and many others from our homeland. Leaving behind everything we had known and loved was a heartbreaking experience. We relocated to Armenia, where we faced the challenge of rebuilding our lives from scratch. Despite the difficulties, I remained determined to continue my work and contribute to my community.

"It was during this period of upheaval that I discovered the versatility of textile cord. This material, with its durability and flexibility, became the foundation of my new creations. I began producing a variety of items, from decorative home accessories to functional everyday objects. This shift in medium allowed me to explore new techniques and expand my artistic repertoire.

"As my new body of work gained recognition, I received encouragement and support from both the local community and the broader arts and crafts circles. The positive feedback reinforced my belief in the importance of adaptability and innovation. My journey from traditional embroidery to textile cord creations became a testament to the power of art to transform and heal.""