makers

introduction

This portfolio of contemporary Armenian needlelace makers showcases the creative talents and technical knowhow of individual artists from around the world. It counters the prevailing notions that knowledgeable needlelace practitioners have passed, ancestral knowledge is lost, and the genre is no longer relevant as a cultural or creative expression.

While we acknowledge the tradition is in jeopardy, motivations for making have shifted over time and the genre continues to evolve in the twenty-first century. Like the malleability of thread and resilience of knots, needlelace practitioners must meet ever-changing cultural and physical landscapes with responsive adaptability for the genre to survive. We applaud the seemingly contradictory strategies of preservation and innovation because both are critical factors in the continuation of all hand practices.

Part of our mission at the Armenian Needlelace Initiative is to highlight Armenian needlelace makers and their work. From time to time we will put out a call for artwork submissions. Sign up for our mailing list to be notified when a call goes out.

makers portfolio