Fair Trade Modern Brown Apricot Wood Cat & Human Sculpture - A Girl and Cat

Artisan Organization: Gayane Nazaryan

Country: Armenia

"My name is Gayane Nazaryan, and I was born in Yerevan in 1953. Growing up in Armenia, I was always surrounded by the rich heritage and inspiring landscapes that define our country, and these influences naturally drew me to the arts. After finishing school, I decided to pursue my passion for sculpture and was accepted into the sculpture department of Terlemezyan Fine Arts College. This was just the beginning of a lifelong journey into the world of sculpture. In 1977, I continued my studies at the Yerevan Fine Arts and Theater Institute, where I immersed myself in the techniques and disciplines of this timeless craft.

"After graduating in 1983, I dedicated myself to creative work, exploring various forms of sculpture. During this period, I participated in several sculpture exhibition across Armenia, including in Yerevan, Jermuk, Etchmiadzin, and Ijevan. These exhibition were invaluable experiences for me. They allowed me not only to develop my skills but also to create public art installations that would stay with these communities for years to come. The compositions I created during these symposia—mainly stone sculptures—depict themes and subjects that have deeply inspired me, reflecting both personal and universal concepts. Each piece found a home in the parks and public spaces of these towns, and I feel honored to contribute to the cultural landscape of Armenia in such a lasting way.

"Over time, I found myself drawn to wood as a medium. Wood has a warmth and organic quality that speaks to me, and it allows for an intimate connection between artist and material. Now, most of my work is centered on wood sculpture, and each piece is crafted with the same dedication and care that I have always brought to my art. I have found a welcoming and vibrant place at the "Vernissage" market in Yerevan, where I can share my work directly with visitors from Armenia and beyond. The market is a wonderful environment to connect with people who appreciate handcrafted art and to share the stories behind my pieces.

"Art has always been more than a career for me; it is a lifelong calling. I am fortunate to be married to a fellow sculptor, who has been a constant source of support and inspiration. Together, we share an understanding of the creative process and a love for the arts, which has made our partnership deeply meaningful. Our shared journey as artists has enriched both our personal and professional lives, as we continue to learn and grow alongside each other.

"Being an artist in Armenia is an honor, as it allows me to contribute to a long tradition of craftsmanship that goes back centuries. My aim is to create works that are not only beautiful but also meaningful, pieces that invite people to stop, reflect, and appreciate the natural materials and themes they represent. Joining Novica gives me the chance to reach a broader audience and share a piece of Armenian artistry with people around the world. I hope that through my work, others can experience the love, dedication, and cultural pride that each piece carries within it.""