Mamikon Mkhitaryan

Metalworker | Yerevan, Armenia

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A life in metal

Mamikon started to work with metals at an early age
His works are influenced by Armenian ornaments and symbols
He offers masterclasses and visits to his home studio

Master artisan Mamikon Mkhitaryan lives and works in his own home studio, carrying on a tradition he remembers from his childhood, when he learned how to work with different metals from his father in their small studio in the family home. He recalls making rings for the beautiful girls of his neighbourhood when he was a little boy. Now, Mamikon's work is heavily influenced by Armenian art. He aims to preserve Armenian metalworking traditions and pass on his skills to younger generations. His studio is therefore open to anyone who loves craft and wants to learn various metalworking techniques.

Interview

©Ani Khachatryan

©Ani Khachatryan

Where did you learn this craft?: My life influencers and teachers were my father and godfather. They advised me to go to a craftsmanship school where I learned how to work with different metals and, most importantly, how to draw. I've now been working with metals for 50 years and what I do is a result of my lifelong studies.
What memories do you have of this craft in your childhood?: We lived in a big house and we had a studio where my father was making and fixing different things, and he taught me to work with metals and use all sorts of tools. I was told that my grandfather was a great master and I sort of inherited his talent.
What was the first work you made?: My first works were rings. I would emboss small decorative elements and animals on metals. I was only 12 at that time, but ever since then I've had only one aim: to make works with an Armenian signature.
Who are your workshops and courses open to?: My studio is open to anyone who wants to learn this craft. I love teaching young people, I only ask them to have good drawing skills as it is very important for making sketches and designs. And of course, they should come with an open heart and mind.

Mamikon Mkhitaryan is a master artisan: he began his career in 1998 and he started teaching in 2000