ArmanH
Arman Hambardzumyan knew early in life that he was an artist. He was born in Armenia in 1988 and raised during a tumultuous time burdened by war and a natural disaster. However, despite a childhood he describes as "difficult," he discovered comfort, escape, and connection through artistic expression, often spending hours sculpting Play-Doh as a child. Arman's father always wanted to become a professional artist, but like many, he felt he did not have the means to pursue his passion. So, while in elementary school, Arman made a personal promise to study art and realize his father's dream.
At eleven, Arman enrolled in the Henrik Igityan National Centre of Aesthetics, founded by well-known Armenian author Henrik Igityan. While at the school, Arman painted his first notable piece titled ‘Vardanank.’ The intricate oil on canvas illustrated the striking chaos of soldiers and religious figures entwined in a holy war. His painting ability was palpable. However, he felt he was more creative when he engaged in the two-handed craft of sculpting. For Arman, the artistic process is distinctly different when you use both hands. "When you start to work with two hands, your left and right brain are more creative," he states. This realization made Arman dedicate his artistic focus to sculpting.
Arman's skill and creativity flourished with each new material he touched and artwork he formed. He loved watching his father, a craftsman who made jeweler tools, work with various metals he brought home. His observations and curiosity inspired Arman to experiment with the metals and want to learn new sculpting practices. So, he enrolled at the Yerevan Pedagogical University, where he earned his master's degree and soon began specializing in bronze sculptures often focused on mythical figures.
Abstract Love by ArmanH
His mastery of new techniques and materials empowered him to explore his love for human history in his work. Specifically, he intends to communicate the past, present, and future to start an eternal dialogue between the piece and its audience. For example, Arman finds ways to seamlessly blend modern concepts and materials of the tech-driven world we live in with historical subjects and forms. He states, "I make the past transformation in the present form that can last into the future."
No matter what form he is creating, Arman feels each piece is significant to his artistic growth. Each work is a unique step forward to create and discover something new. He states, "It's important for each one to have a new detail and technical skill so I can understand the life I lived when I look behind." Arman's refreshing approach demonstrates his belief that he must always listen to his first idea. Arman feels that children are always honest when they create. "What they are thinking. . . they are painting," states Arman. This understanding of the youthful creative process inspires Arman to work hard to remain a "kid" in his thinking and a professional with his skill.
Arman's extensive education and experience have made his desire to create new works that clearly express his feelings more vital than ever. Every day he feels an obligation to advance his ideas so he can create a dialogue with his audience. Even when traveling, Arman's personal experiences inspire unforgettable creations. For example, his piece Abstract Love, found in the Objets Trouvés gallery, was inspired by a memorable moment in the New York subway. In addition, he's used rocks found on hikes to form pieces inspired by the natural world and expired industrial parts to express statements about notable periods in time.
Whether sketching new designs, collecting materials, or molding all the pieces together, Arman tirelessly shapes and refines the emotion he wants to express. "It doesn't matter what material I'm working in; the main element is to focus on creating the idea," states Arman. Currently, he has ten works in his head, and he is not sure which one to begin. "It's like talking with a creator in heaven that gives me new ideas and the ability to create them," states Arman. Yet, no matter what idea takes shape, it will reveal a remarkable journey and truth about a life inspired by divine intervention and mortal inspiration.
To learn more about Arman Hambardzumyan and purchase his work, please visit the Objets Trouvés website.
