N°- 259 (2018) Painting by Aykaz Arzumanyan

Aykaz Arzumanyan is a contemporary Armenian artist born in 1977. His artistic process is akin to a physical routine, requiring calmness and well-warmed muscles before he begins creating. This preparation reflects the demanding nature of his work, which involves meticulously layering thick oil paints using specially designed knives. The canvases he uses, often linen, are mounted on wooden frames, and his technique, characterized by relief and precision, requires a significant amount of time, especially due to the lengthy drying process of the oil.

Arzumanyan's unique approach to abstraction is the result of extensive research and synthesis. He describes his journey as a search for an abstract image that eventually took the form of a rose flower in his mind. This discovery led him to develop his signature technique of creating oil on canvas in relief with a knife. His work is deeply influenced by Pierre Soulages, the renowned French painter and engraver, whom Arzumanyan admired for his abstract art and with whom he wished to exchange ideas and techniques.

The core intention behind Arzumanyan's paintings is to evoke feelings of joy and happiness in the viewer. He achieves this through the use of characteristic shadows, nuances, and reliefs, often employing a predominantly monochromatic palette with decisive and vibrant color choices. His artistic journey began in 2005 when he transitioned from running a company involved in art services to creating his own works. Initially, what started as a playful experiment evolved into a successful and rewarding career, leading Arzumanyan to fully dedicate himself to oil painting.

Arzumanyan's paintings often depict a vision of a rose in the foreground, with an artificial multiplication of petals. These petals, varying in openness, sometimes feature subtle tonal details that contrast with the dominant monochrome, adding depth and complexity to his compositions.

• Nationality: FRANCE
• Date of birth : 1977
• Artistic domains:
• Groups: Contemporary French Artists