Rising Stars: Meet Pavel Hambardzumyan of Vanadzor (Armenia)

Today we’d like to introduce you to Pavel Hambardzumyan

Hi Pavel, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My story as an artist has been a continuous evolution, deeply connected to my surroundings and experiences. Growing up in an environment steeped in art and surrounded by paintings of the old masters, I was naturally drawn to creativity. While my passion for fine arts sparked at a young age, I chose to pursue it seriously only during my university years.

In the early stages of my artistic story, I immersed myself in studying the techniques of the old masters, learning from their precision and dedication. At the same time, I found inspiration in the works of modern artists and my peers, whose fresh perspectives encouraged me to reinterpret classical techniques and blend them with contemporary ideas, crafting a style uniquely my own.

One of the most significant milestones in my story has been the exploration of coffee beans as a recurring motif in my art. It all began with simple and recognizable depictions of coffee beans, but over time, they transformed into symbols carrying deeper meanings. In my later works, these beans evolved into more abstract and minimalist forms, representing something much more profound than their physical shape. While I also paint still lifes, flowers, and other subjects, the coffee bean has always stayed with me. For me, it is more than just an ordinary object; it is a timeless connection and an enduring theme in my creative expression.

I am constantly evolving and uncovering new inspirations. Many of my paintings have found homes in different countries, which motivates me to continue sharing my vision with a global audience.

Today, my art reflects a harmony of tradition and modernity, often influenced by minimalism and balanced color palettes. Every piece I create is a story — both personal and universal — inviting the viewer to discover their own meanings and emotions.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road to becoming an artist has been far from smooth, but every challenge has shaped me and my work. One of the biggest struggles early on was finding the courage to fully commit to art as a career. Growing up, I admired the old masters and felt inspired by their works, but I often questioned whether I could achieve something meaningful in the modern art world.

Another challenge was refining my own style while navigating the balance between tradition and innovation. While studying the techniques of the old masters, I also felt a strong pull towards experimenting with contemporary ideas and materials. For example, the recurring theme of coffee beans in my work began as a simple exploration but soon became a complex story of symbolism and abstraction. Allowing this motif to evolve over time and finding ways to integrate it meaningfully into my broader body of work was both exciting and challenging.

On a more personal level, there have been moments of doubt — the kind that every artist faces — questioning whether a piece was ‘good enough’ or whether I was on the right path. These moments pushed me to grow, to try new approaches, and to trust my instincts more.

Finally, as my work began to find audiences in other countries, it brought its own set of challenges: adapting to the expectations of diverse viewers while staying true to my vision. Despite these struggles, each obstacle has been an opportunity to learn, evolve, and deepen my connection to my art.

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?
I primarily work with oil on canvas, a medium that allows me to delve deeply into texture and emotion.

One of the elements I am most known for is my recurring use of the coffee bean motif. What started as simple and recognizable depictions gradually transformed into a symbolic language in my art. For me, the coffee bean represents continuity, transformation, and the unexpected beauty in everyday objects.

In addition to this motif, I also create still lifes, floral compositions, and other subjects that capture subtle emotions and fleeting moments. What sets my work apart is the blend of classical techniques with a modern, thoughtful perspective. I aim to create pieces that not only resonate visually but also spark curiosity and contemplation.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
My first piece of advice is to stay curious and open to learning from different sources. A mentor doesn’t always have to be a formal teacher; they could be a fellow artist, a gallery owner, or even someone whose work inspires you from afar.

For me, one of the most effective ways to connect with potential mentors has been to actively participate in art communities, both online and offline. Attending exhibitions, workshops, and artist talks has not only expanded my knowledge but also created opportunities to meet like-minded individuals.

When it comes to networking, I’ve learned that building relationships takes time and sincerity. Social media can be a powerful tool, but it’s important to approach it authentically — sharing your process, engaging with others’ work, and being consistent can make a big difference.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that you don’t need to know everything right away. It’s okay to seek guidance and ask for advice. Many experienced artists are willing to share their knowledge if they see your dedication and passion.

Ultimately, my advice is to be proactive, humble, and willing to learn. Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. The connections you make along the way can lead to incredible opportunities and collaborations.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://pavel.am/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hanbragher_art/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hanbragher