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Exotic, guttural, and unique are just some of the words art enthusiasts use to describe Hratch Babikian's work. Inspired by nature and all life forms, this established artist creates jewelry and sculpture that is contemplative and stunning. "My interest in the cultural existences of people past, present, and future has influenced my work. Coming from a diverse mixture of Eastern and Western cultural backgrounds, most of my work is based on writings and calligraphic drawings; cultural, political, and personal messages through my own life experiences."
Born in Beirut, Lebanon in 1961, Hratch is also influenced by his Mediterranean family life, which filled his senses with beauty and nurtured his soul. Growing up around a family of Artists, Goldsmiths, Painters and Craftsmen gave Hratch many outlets to explore his creativity. "I paint and write in calligraphic abstractions of the human form. In turn the drawings and writings transform into jewelry or sculpture, depending on the idea and subject."
The Mediterranean culture and landscape of the bright blue sky, the lively sea full of creatures, the subtle sounds, rich aromas and exotic cuisine, would leave their imprint on Hratch, forever. "My inspiration for most of my new work comes from my love of the sea, and it's residents."
In 1975, Lebanon went through a Civil War, which made it impossible for Hratch to continue his education. Driven by his desire to continue his education and to create, he left for the US in 1979. He attended Philadelphia College of Art at University of the Arts and graduated in 1983 with a BFA in metals and a minor in photography. "My attraction to hollow forming, forging, and fabrication of metal, is its disciplined, precision control. My attraction to wood and stone carving is its physicality."
Since then he has been working solo and with other well known artists, craftsmen and designers, creating remarkable pieces of jewelry and one-of-a-kind sculptures. "The Alphabets of the world represent our culture's being; from cave-dwelling paintings to today's refined letters. It is the soul of cultures; without it civilizations would die out without a trace."
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