Meet Anna Manukyan

Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna Manukyan.

Hi Anna, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story? 
My journey as an artist began from my childhood. I am one of the fortunate ones born into a family of artists. My father was an artist, and I grew up in an atmosphere where art reigned supreme. I inherited my love for painting from him. I remember the scent of those paints, the dance of the brush on the canvas from my earliest memories. My father had a profound influence on my worldview, teaching me to understand, love, and live through art. Despite being a doctor, my mother also deeply values and appreciates art. She introduced me to the world of art in general. We frequently visited museums, galleries, theaters, and concerts and immersed ourselves in poetry and literature. I am grateful that all of this was a part of my upbringing. My brother is also an artist, so the ambiance of art surrounded me constantly. I attended art school as a child and later pursued higher education, majoring in Art at university to deepen my knowledge. Art became an integral part of my life. During my five years at university, I relished in the essence of art, discovering its colors within me and developing a love for abstraction during those formative years. 

Though painting holds a special place in my heart, I can’t claim that my days revolve solely around it. I am also a jewelry designer, and I am currently working on establishing my own jewelry brand, “AMIELLI.” I participate in numerous art exhibitions while simultaneously nurturing my brand. As a creative person, I can’t stop myself from learning new things, and recently, I’ve embarked on a journey into the world of photography. I hope to capture some interesting images and breathe life into them as well. Although I’m a beginner, I’ve already started to love the process. 

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I can’t say whether it was easy or hard because my love for painting and the joy I find in the process overshadow any challenges I face. With each stroke, I pour a piece of my inner world onto the canvas. Being an artist is a solitary dialogue where I share my deepest feelings and thoughts with myself alone. It’s a significant part of who I am. I believe that if you truly love what you do, doors will open for you, though it may take time for realization. During my artistic journey, I’ve encountered numerous obstacles in showcasing my art, but my passion remains unwavering. 

In 2015, when my husband and I moved from Armenia to the United States, we faced significant challenges. Everything was new – the language, the atmosphere. Yet, this country infused my paintings with new colors and images, breathing fresh life into my art. Exhibitions in this foreign land were particularly inspiring; witnessing the reactions and admiration of people was truly motivating. It was even more exhilarating when people purchased my work. Thus began my second life in art. 

As an abstract impressionist, I paint what I want and need in the moment. My desire is for people to discover something in my paintings that touches their hearts, integrating my art into their souls. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. We’d love to learn more about your work. What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
As I mentioned, being a creative person, I’m interested in many aspects of art, but only painting can make me truly happy. All my paintings are born of inspiration. There must be something that will either cover or touch my inner world and when it matures, it will be represented on the canvas. The topics depend on my mood. Even when I know the subject in advance, I never imagine the final look of the painting; that’s the most interesting part of my art. I don’t make any sketches in advance; everything starts from a blank canvas. I like the process when I don’t know how my work will end. There is always music playing during painting sessions; it gives a different color and power to my paintings. I like to paint very quickly, and I don’t like to continue the painting over days; when it’s done, it’s done. No matter what’s happening inside me, there are always bright colors in my paintings. I finish my painting when I feel that adding more color or brushstrokes might damage it. That’s when I consider it complete. That’s why I love abstract art; you don’t need to think; you just need to feel. There are no rules or anything that can control me. My subconscious does everything, and that’s what I love about the process. I often paint with alcohol inks, and the liquid colors make the process even more interesting. With no sketches and no idea of what the end result will be, it’s exhilarating. Sometimes I also work with acrylics, pastels, inks, and I like experimenting with different mediums to achieve new effects. In addition to painting on canvas or paper, I also paint on silk and create hand-made scarves using permanent paints. That process is also fascinating. 

Your question is quite interesting. There are many things I could be proud of, but what I’m most proud of is that I can paint and have a dialogue with the canvas that I don’t want to have with anyone else. That’s an awesome feeling: being completely with yourself and enjoying the process. 

What do you think about happiness?
Speaking of happiness, I always recall a profound saying that resonates with me deeply: “Don’t chase happiness; it’s always within you.” This sentiment has stuck with me, serving as a constant reminder that happiness is not external but rather an intrinsic part of our being. Above all, I find happiness in the foundation of my life: my incredible family. They have shaped me into the person I am today, and for that, I am eternally grateful. 

Moreover, I am immensely happy because I have found my true passion in painting. Throughout my life, painting has been my steadfast companion, guiding me through both joyous and challenging times. 

Furthermore, my happiness blossoms in the embrace of my own beautiful family, especially in the presence of my beloved daughter. Motherhood has brought me a profound sense of fulfillment and joy that I cherish deeply. 

Additionally, happiness, to me, resides in moments of purpose and connection. Whether it’s creating art with a clear intention or simply being present in quiet moments of reflection, finding meaning in my actions brings me immense happiness. 

In essence, happiness is not a destination to be chased; it is an ever-present aspect of our existence, waiting to be recognized and embraced in the beauty of life’s simplest moments. 

Pricing:

• Solar Symphony-$1,600
• Mirrored Realities-$1,800
• Piece Of Ocean-$450
• Forces of Light and Dark-$450
• Whispers of Light-$1,600

Contact Info:

• Website: annamanukyan.com
• Instagram: @annamanukyan19 @anna_manukyan_art @amiellijewelry
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anna.manukyan.16/ https://www.facebook.com/annamanukyanart/