Glazed Ceramic Cottage Wall Art from Armenia Painted by Hand - Cottage Fantasy

Artisan Organization: Hayk Abazyan

Country: Armenia

"Hello, my name is Hayk Abazyan, and I am an artisan specializing in ceramic pieces. My journey with clay began early; I was still in school—7th grade—when I first felt the thrill of shaping something meaningful from a simple block of clay. Born in Yerevan in 1991, I grew up surrounded by the inspiring architecture and artistic culture of Armenia, which has had a lasting impact on my work. After completing my studies at secondary school No. 192, I went on to pursue a degree at the University of Architecture and Construction, where I deepened my understanding of structure, design, and the importance of artistic detail. My academic background in architecture has become the foundation of my work as a ceramist, helping me create pieces that merge function with beauty and celebrate the spirit of Armenian craftsmanship.

"In my early twenties, I served in the Armenian army from 2011 to 2013, a time that instilled in me resilience and discipline. This experience reinforced my commitment to following my creative passion after my service, and I returned with a renewed sense of purpose to bring my vision to life. Since then, I have dedicated myself to the art of pottery, a craft that has connected me deeply with my roots and my love for Armenian architecture. I am particularly inspired by the traditional buildings and ornate structures that make Armenia’s cityscapes so unique. Each ceramic house or wall décor piece I create pays homage to our culture’s architectural heritage, from ancient stone buildings to charming village homes.

"My process is intuitive yet precise. Each piece begins with a vision, often drawn from the places I’ve seen or architectural forms that resonate with me. I work with clay to shape miniature houses, adding intricate details that give each piece its own personality. Once the structure is complete, I focus on texturing and glazing, drawing on techniques I learned both in my studies and through years of practice. Texture is essential to my work; it brings my ceramic pieces to life, giving each one a sense of history and character. The final result is a piece that feels like it has a story, evoking the warmth and charm of Armenian homes.

"For me, creating wall décor is an opportunity to invite people into this story. I aim for my work to be more than mere decorations — they’re intended to transport viewers to another place, a moment or memory connected to the beauty of Armenian culture. My choice of colors, shapes, and finishes is deeply inspired by our landscapes and the warmth of Armenian village life. Each piece, whether it’s a small house or an elaborate wall hanging, is crafted with the goal of bringing this beauty into people’s homes.

"What I love most about working with ceramics is the sense of timelessness. Clay is a material that has been used for centuries, and by working with it, I feel connected to generations of artisans who have shaped, molded, and fired pieces that tell stories of their time. This tradition gives my work a sense of purpose, reminding me that I am part of something much larger. My hope is that my ceramic creations bring a sense of warmth, history, and cultural pride into the lives of those who choose them.

"Every piece I make is a reflection of my journey—my love for Armenia, my background in architecture, and my desire to create art that resonates with others. Thank you for joining me in this journey, and I look forward to sharing my ceramic creations with you, hoping they bring the same joy and connection to Armenian heritage that I feel every time I shape a piece of clay.""