Lizzy Vartanian
Embroiderer
Yerevan, Armenia
Armenia depicted with needle and thread
- Lizzy creates embroidered artworks rooted in Armenian culture
- Her pieces have been exhibited at the Royal Academy of Arts in London
- She offers embroidery kits to pass Armenian heritage to new generations
Born to an English father and a Lebanese-Armenian mother with family in Syria, Lizzy Vartanian grew up in the UK with a strong affinity to Armenian embroidery. Growing up in the diaspora, she began embroidering at the age of five as a way of staying connected to her Armenian roots. Through her work, Lizzy blends Armenian embroidery traditions with contemporary storytelling, using her craft to reflect and share her culture. After moving to Armenia in 2024, what began as a passion gradually evolved into a full professional practice. “I love embroidery and I love being Armenian, so I bring the two together in my practice,” she says. Through her online courses, Lizzy shares her knowledge with diaspora communities and audiences across the world.
INTERVIEW
I learned embroidery from my mother, who was a profound influence on my work. Before relocating to Armenia in 2024 to pursue the craft full-time, I began teaching embroidery courses in the UK in 2020. As both Armenian and a member of the diaspora, I strive to share these traditional techniques with wider audiences.
Many Armenians today live in the diaspora, and through my work I want to show people the richness of Armenian textile culture. My pieces are deeply inspired by my family story, heritage and personal memories connected to Armenia.
In Armenia, many embroiderers still teach the craft. However, the tradition is endangered across certain diaspora communities due to lack of local instuctors and workshops. It is important to share these skills with younger generations living abroad.
Be patient and trust the process. Many beginners give up too soon, but embroidery requires patience and time. If you give yourself space to practise, the work will slowly come together.
Lizzy Vartanian
Embroiderer
Yerevan, Armenia
ADDRESS
Address upon request, Yerevan, Armenia
AVAILABILITY
By appointment only
PHONE
+374 95136098
LANGUAGES
Armenian, French, English
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