"I am Miqayel Nalbandyan, and my life's journey is deeply intertwined with the art of crafting khachkars from tuff stone (rock made from volcanic ash), a cherished tradition in Armenia. My story begins in the town of Vardenis, nestled in the heart of the Gegharkunik region, where I was born and raised. From a young age, I was drawn to the artistry of stone carving. It was a passion ignited by my father, a master stonecutter himself, who instilled in me the deep cultural heritage and the significance of khachkars. These intricately carved cross-stones are a symbol of faith and a testament to Armenian history, and they have been an integral part of our family's legacy for generations.

"Under my father's guidance, I honed my skills in the art of creating khachkars from the tuff stone. Tuff is not just any stone; it is a material steeped in history, a symbol of our enduring spirit as a nation. The act of shaping this stone into delicate and meaningful designs became my life's work and passion.

"The process of crafting a khachkar is a meticulous endeavor. Each piece is carefully selected for its texture and color. I carve intricate patterns and symbols onto the stone's surface, imbuing each khachkar with deep meaning. These symbols often represent the Christian faith, historical events, and the enduring connection between our people and our land. It is a source of pride for me to carry forward this legacy, preserving our cultural heritage one stone at a time.

"However, like many businesses around the world, the COVID-19 pandemic struck a severe blow to my workshop. With travel restrictions, economic uncertainties, and the safety of our customers and artisans in mind, I had to adapt to new ways of operating. The pandemic forced me to explore online avenues, reaching out to art enthusiasts and collectors who shared my passion. It was a challenging transition, but one that allowed me to continue my work in the face of adversity. As if the pandemic wasn't enough, the war with Azerbaijan in Artsakh brought an additional layer of hardship to my life. The conflict disrupted the region, causing economic instability and making it difficult to source the materials I needed for our craft. My workshop faced delays and difficulties, but I persevered, driven by the belief that art has the power to heal wounds and unite people in times of strife.

"Today, as I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of the resilience of our culture and the enduring spirit of our people. Despite the challenges brought by COVID-19 and the war, I remain committed to preserving and promoting our heritage through my art. In the face of adversity, my workshop continues to stand as a testament to the enduring power of Armenian craftsmanship. I am determined to ensure that the beauty and significance of khachkars reach far and wide, touching the hearts of those who appreciate it. I hope that, through my art, I can bridge divides, foster understanding, and bring a sense of unity to a world in need of it."

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