In September 2023, the region of Nagorno-Karabakh succumbed to a political conflict without precedence. As a result, the people residing in these mountainous lands have been compelled into exile, leaving behind a treasure trove of traditions whose fate remains uncertain. Among the most significant of these traditions is the art of carpet weaving. The rugs originating from Nagorno Karabakh stand as unparalleled marvels, encapsulating within their threads a plethora of stories and enduring traditions.
Join expert Hratch Kozibeyokian in this enlightening presentation to explore the captivating world of symbols and motifs concealed within the intricate knots of these carpets. He argues that this part of Armenian culture too is subjected to cultural appropriation and, ultimately, cultural genocide. This session promises to unveil the richness of these artistic creations and delve into the profound narratives and cultural significance woven into each rug.
This event will be solely online.
About the Speaker
Hratch Kozibeyokian was born in Aleppo, Syria, and raised in Lebanon in a family with a rich tradition of weaving craftsmanship. He immigrated to the United States in 1977 to join his father. While in Chicago he worked with two Oriental Rug Companies as a restoration specialist, Klujian Rug Co. and Michael Isberian at Beloian Oriental Rug Co. In 1979, he settled in Los Angeles and earned a B.A. in Cultural Anthropology from Chapman College. In 1990, he and his wife established KO’Z’Craft, a workshop studio to restore and conserve hand-woven antique textiles and carpets. He works as a consultant for private collectors, dealers and interior decorators in the trade and also provides professional appraisal certificates. In 1992, they inaugurated an exhibit gallery in West Hollywood’s design district. Mr. Kozibeyokian also holds an extensive collection of historic Armenian and Caucasian hand-woven rugs and textiles. Mr. Kozibeyokian often travels to curate, exhibit and lecture on various subjects related to hand-woven textile arts.
Mr. Kozibeyokian became the first lecturer on “Contribution of Armenian Rugs in World Culture” within the Armenian Studies Program at the California State University, Northridge. He has lectured in schools, museums, cultural societies and groups of art connoisseurs, notably at the White House Visitor’s Center (2014) and the Smithsonian Museum (2016). He has published numerous papers in various publications and spoken at symposiums and conferences. In 1998, Mr. Kozibeyokian joined the Armenian Rugs Society and has served on its board since. On March 21, 2015, he was elected as president of the Armenian Rugs Society. He holds the “Best Oriental Oriental Rug Restorer in Los Angeles” award.
