In Gyumri, Armenia’s arts and crafts capital, Gevorgyan Ceramics has gained international renown since its founding in 2008. The owners, Vazgen and Satenik Gevorgyan, have combined their innovative artistic visions with their lasting love of clay to restore and revive many of the distinctive pottery traditions from the Armenian highlands.
Working with Vazgen, you’ll be sure to learn some of his basic techniques, such as throwing clay on a potter’s wheel and making some simple shapes. If you are seeking challenges or are more advanced, Vazgen can also demonstrate how to fashion more elaborate ceramic objects, such as those in his extensive collection. Even if yours doesn’t end up quite like his, you’ll enjoy the experience of learning new artistic skills while also taking home a souvenir of your own creation.
Gevorgyan Ceramics features a wide range of ornamental objects that represent diverse eras and cultural beliefs. Vazgen also restores and makes copies of ancient clay objects from different archeological and cultural periods, and offers replicas of original masterpieces for purchase.
Gevorgyan Ceramics is one of the best places to learn about the pottery culture of the Armenian highlands, which have long been home to abundant natural clay deposits. Amid the rich history and culture of Gyumri, Vazgen and Satenik have not only revived, but have also created ceramic cultural treasures that may appeal to both the serious collector and the casual buyer.
Meet your hosts
Vazgen and Satenik Gevorgyan have combined their innovative artistic visions with their lasting love of clay to restore and revive many of the distinctive pottery traditions from the Armenian highlands. Vazgen applies the traditional approaches of clay processing and production of household utensils still observed in these villages and combines them with modern trends and methods, which are usually informed by his own experience.
