Passing down techniques, shaping futures — one ring at a time.

The world moves fast. But every now and then, we pause and return to simple things—and their origins. Take a ring, for instance. Small, yes. But for centuries, it’s carried enormous meaning. A symbol of family, a sign of leadership, a token of belonging. Passed from one generation to the next, a ring was never just decoration—it was a story, a signal, a legacy.

And behind each of these objects? A maker. A master. Someone who has kept the craft alive through time, adding layers of meaning to every detail and technique.

In the Armenian Highlands, jewelry-making dates back thousands of years. Archaeological finds from as early as the 2nd millennium BC reveal refined artistry in gold and silver. Throughout history, Armenian jewelers have been revered as both artisans and custodians of heritage.

At TUMO Studios, we recognize jewelry-making not only as a craft but as a cultural phenomenon. That’s why we offer a free, six-month technical course in jewelry for young adults passionate about design and making. Under the guidance of Shushan Ayvazyan—TUMO Studios alumna, founder of ShuShu Contemp, and one of Armenia’s most exciting young jewelry designers—students learn timeless metalwork techniques while exploring modern interpretations.

We sat down with Shushan to talk about her journey, her teaching philosophy, and her experience with MOSAIC.

How did your journey into jewelry-making begin?

I chose this path during my student years. I’ve always loved working with my hands. Since childhood, I was drawn to drawing and creating. Over time, that passion became a conscious choice. I studied hot enamel, took 3D modeling courses—always trying to expand my skill set.

In 2017, I discovered TUMO Studios’ jewelry making course and applied with great excitement. I was accepted but couldn’t balance it with my university and job at the time. Still, I kept working, learning, and growing.

Three years later, I applied again—this time with even more clarity. That was a difficult period for all of us, but for me, TUMO Studios became a place of focus and a turning point. I chose to follow my inner voice and fully commit to learning and growing as an artist.

Looking back, what’s kept me going is the love of creating I’ve had since I was a child. Every challenge has only strengthened my resolve to continue growing—and to share that journey with others.

What materials or techniques do you enjoy working with the most?

My creative process is never tied to just one material. I’ve worked with metal, wax, paper, and digital tools like 3D modeling. Sometimes I build with wax, sometimes with paper, and other times I shape forms directly from my imagination.

The most rewarding part is bringing an idea into physical form—watching it evolve, detail by detail, into a finished piece. Working with metal in particular requires deep attention: you need to understand its nature, choose the right technique, and bring the idea to its full potential.

It’s a process that demands patience, precision, and care. And those are the values I bring to everything I make.

What do you try to pass on to your students at TUMO Studios?

More than anything, I try to instill a respectful and conscious attitude toward the craft. Jewelry-making isn’t easy—it takes time, patience, and a lot of dedication. But even if a student chooses a different path in the future, I want them to walk away more confident, more courageous, and more connected to their own abilities.

How do you balance teaching and running your own brand?

Teaching and creating take very different kinds of energy. When I’m working with students, I feel a strong sense of responsibility. I know I’m part of their creative journey. When I’m working on my own pieces, I have more freedom—I can shape my time around inspiration.

You’ve participated in MOSAIC meetups in Bologna and Finland. How did those experiences shape your perspective?

Bologna was the beginning—things were still in a testing phase, and we were exploring different approaches. In Espoo, the work felt more structured. There were clear takeaways, and we saw real progress.

That experience helped me better understand how to test and refine creative processes. I’ve since applied that mindset to both my teaching and my own work.

What did you take away from the MOSAIC social inclusion course?

The course left a big impression. It covered everything from inclusive education to people-centered approaches, all focused on creating equal opportunities. I gained both theoretical knowledge and practical tools.

It also reminded me that as teachers, we need to be sensitive and intentional with every word and action. I already approached my students with patience and care, but after the course, I felt a deeper clarity and responsibility.

What’s next—for ShuShu Contemp, for your teaching, and for MOSAIC?

Right now, I’m developing my author brand. The concept is already in place, and I’m working on a new series that I’ll be sharing soon.

At the Studios, I’ve started a new six-month jewelry course with a fresh group of students. We’re also planning workshops that I know the students are eager to dive into. I always encourage them to experiment, think creatively, and keep honing their technical skills.

From a student at TUMO Studios to a mentor shaping the next generation, Shushan Ayvazyan continues to blend tradition with bold innovation. Through her work at ShuShu Contemp and her teaching at the Studios, she’s helping ensure that Armenia’s rich heritage isn’t just remembered—it’s lived, created, and worn.