Arman Suciyan: Sculptural Silver and Bronze Jewelry From Istanbul
Born in Istanbul, Turkey, Arman Suciyan’s artistic journey began humbly as an apprenticeship in a goldsmith workshop at the age of fifteen. This formative experience instilled within him a profound understanding of traditional craftsmanship alongside a keen eye for architectural precision – principles that would become cornerstones of his distinctive style. He was born in 1972, and grew up in Istanbul, Turkey. He first began his career as a goldsmith apprentice in the Grand Bazaar at age 15.Early Influences: His training under Misak Toros, fourth generation of a Turkish Armenian family with a rich heritage in jewelry design and production, exposed him to the enduring traditions of fine jewelry making. Misak Toros instilled in Arman a deep appreciation for meticulous detail and a respect for ancestral techniques—values that continue to shape his artistic vision.
Recognizing his talent and ambition, Arman pursued studies at Kent Institute of Art & Design, where he honed his skills in wax carving and modelling – techniques that would become central to his artistic process. This formal education provided him with invaluable tools for translating conceptual ideas into tangible sculptural forms.
- Collaborations: He gained invaluable experience working alongside Stephen Webster, a renowned British jeweler, contributing to the creation of elaborate figurative pieces and establishing himself as a trusted collaborator within Webster’s workshop. Webster's influence encouraged Arman to explore innovative approaches to jewelry design, pushing boundaries while maintaining a commitment to exceptional quality.
Moving beyond established collaborations, Arman embarked on independent artistic endeavors, spending time in Milan before returning to Istanbul in 2008 to dedicate himself fully to his craft. His collections are characterized by bold experimentation with silver, bronze and gold, reflecting a passion for pushing boundaries while honoring the legacy of his heritage.
Distinctive Technique: Arman’s mastery lies in sculpting and modelling – transforming raw materials into breathtaking sculptural jewelry that captures both form and emotion. He meticulously shapes metal using specialized tools, achieving remarkable precision and capturing subtle nuances of expression.
- Recognition & Awards: He has garnered acclaim from the Goldsmiths Craft Council and received recognition for his work at Elle Style Awards (Turkey), validating his dedication to excellence and innovation.
Arman Suciyan’s jewelry transcends mere adornment; it embodies a fusion of Victorian elegance and fantastical imagination, meticulously crafted with exceptional skill and imbued with Turkish artistry. Pieces like “Swan Earcuff” exemplify this vision – combining intricate silver sculpting with radiant ruby and diamond embellishments to create truly unforgettable artworks.
Notable Work: The "Swan Earcuff" brooch showcases Arman’s ability to blend historical influences with imaginative storytelling. Close observation reveals the remarkable precision of his craftsmanship, highlighting the meticulous layering of materials and the careful placement of gemstones. It is a testament to his dedication to transforming conceptual ideas into stunning sculptural jewelry.
Arman Suciyan has received various awards by the Goldsmiths Craft Council, as well as the utterly prestigious DeBeers Jewellery Design Award.
