Check Out Hagop Belian’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Hagop Belian.

Hi Hagop, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m a self-taught artist. While immersed in the analytical world of my thesis on Robot Motion Planning, I experienced a lucid vision: I saw myself painting on a grand scale, sweeping gestures carving emotion across vast canvases. The dream struck a deep chord within me—raw, visceral, undeniable. After earning my BA in Mathematics, I turned toward that calling. My journey began with bold abstract acrylics on canvas, evolved into textured assemblage, and eventually drew me to the quiet intimacy of flat surfaces. There, I found resonance in 2D collage—an exploration that blossomed into layered, mixed media works on paper.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely has not been a smooth ride—but that doesn’t mean it hasn’t been fun. At the end of the day, I still get to do what I love. That said, there’s a big difference between selling artwork as a side hustle and running a full-time art business. The roles shift, and it becomes about balancing both the artist and the entrepreneur within me, switching hats depending on the situation. It’s been a journey learning to truly value myself and my work. I’ve had to navigate how to conduct business in a way that commands respect—making sure my contributions are recognized as meaningful and professional. I’ve learned to honor the value of my work without letting others’ financial situations dictate its worth. This shift hasn’t just been about setting boundaries—it’s been about reclaiming agency, honoring the labor behind my practice, and affirming that creative work deserves to be seen, supported, and sustained.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My studio practice centers on mixed media collage, created on handmade papers sourced from around the world. A few years ago, I began incorporating embroidery, and now thread appears throughout much of my work. I’m also drawn to gold and silver leafing, which adds another layer of texture and symbolism to my pieces. At the core of my work is the concept of humans encountering their spirit animals—so animals are always present. You’ll also notice the absence of eyes in my figures. Since eyes are often called the “windows to the soul,” they can evoke the ego. In my work, I aim to dissolve the ego to emphasize our shared energetic connection.

My murals are an extension of my collage practice, created using paper and wheat paste . Each piece is composed of layered, hand-cut elements that bring the tactile quality of my studio work into public spaces. While presented in a black-and-white palette, the texture and composition carry the same energy and intention as my mixed media pieces. Using paper as the primary medium allows me to stay true to the materials I love while translating them into a larger, more accessible format. These murals become temporary yet powerful installations—ephemeral moments of connection between the work, the environment, and the viewer.
The simplicity of black and white emphasizes form and gesture, making the imagery more universal and immediate. Working in public spaces adds another layer of connection—these murals become part of the urban landscape, inviting viewers to pause, reflect, and engage with themes of identity, spirit, and interconnectedness outside of traditional gallery settings.

I take pride in my dedication to my practice and my ongoing pursuit of creativity and mastery. To me, success lies in the process, not the end point. We thrive not when we’ve finished everything, but when there’s still more to explore. A master isn’t someone who has reached the end of a subject, but someone who understands that there is no end.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
For networking, I recommend attending art fairs. They’re fantastic opportunities to connect with clients, galleries, decorators, and other artists, opening doors for future collaborations. I’ve found that these genuine, face-to-face interactions often lead to the most meaningful connections.
I’ve found that the best way to find mentors and build meaningful professional connections is by being genuinely curious and willing to learn. I’ve always danced to the rhythm of my own drum and don’t typically follow trends. Because of that, I haven’t had a traditional mentor in the usual sense. Instead, nature has been my guide. Daily hikes and time spent outdoors clear my mind and ignite my imagination, bringing a flow of regeneration and creative energy.
I believe that true visionaries often challenge the status quo, which can make the journey more difficult—but that’s the essence of art: staying authentic and true to your inner voice. When I connect with others, whether clients or fellow artists, I prioritize honest, meaningful conversations and mutual support. For me, networking is less about collecting contacts and more about building genuine relationships grounded in respect and shared passion.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.madeofhagop.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madeofhagop/