Mane Harutyunyan

Brutents Ceramics

Ceramicist

Drinking in Armenian poetry

Mane studied ceramics at the Stroganov Academy of Art in Moscow
She comes from a long line of ceramicists over several centuries
Her ceramics feature motifs inspired by Armenian poets

Mane Harutyunyan is a ceramicist whose love for ceramics has been passed down through generations, from her ancestors who carried the surname Brutents. In her magical Brutents Studio, she creates unique handcrafted tableware that embodies the essence of Armenia. Her artistic journey began in 2016 when she graduated from the Faculty of Interior Design at the Moscow Stroganov Art Academy. In 2017, Mane pursued further studies at the ceramics faculty, where she began exploring her artistic voice. This path led her to create pottery inspired by traditional Armenian colours as well as poetry by Armenian poets, blending traditional elements with minimalist design. Her handcrafted pieces feature lines of poetry hand-painted onto ceramic objects.

Interview

What role do tradition and innovation play in your craft?: I am inspired by traditional Izmir ceramics, especially from the Ottoman era when many Armenian craftsmen were making blue-white ceramics decorated with intricate miniatures. While honouring these traditions, I also innovate by infusing each piece with the spirit of Armenian poetry.
How would you define the style of your work?: I would define my style as minimalistic, with ethnic Armenian motifs. Inspired by traditional Armenian blue ceramics, I transform floral patterns into poetic expressions, using lines from my favourite Armenian poets — Sahyan, Tumanyan, Charents, Teryan, and Isahakyan.
How do you come up with ideas for a piece?: When creating something new, I begin by sketching forms and illustrating, then I begin to experiment with ceramics directly. Over one or two months, I refine the piece, allowing the material to guide me, often resulting in something more interesting than I initially imagined.
How do you see your ceramic work evolving in the future?: I see my ceramic work evolving into large-scale creations that will find a place in museum spaces, inviting viewers to experience monumental forms and intricate textures. I also want to incorporate materials like metal and glass, exploring their synergy with clay to create multidimensional pieces.

Mane Harutyunyan is a rising star: she began her career in 2017 and she started teaching in 2020