San Francisco-based artist, Tiko (Tigran) Makunts, has committed to donating all proceeds from the sale of his artwork and merchandise to support The Children of Armenia Fund (COAF).
As a teenager in Yerevan, Tiko picked up painting with a passion. “When I was 14 years old, I bought a cheap box of oil pastels and some paper after getting an intense urge to paint,” Tiko recalls. “The rest was history.” As a self-taught artist, Tiko began experimenting with oil colors and pastels, using art as a way to cope with the challenging aspects of life. He found solace in the beauty of nature, in his words, “I feel as if the world poses for me in little green pockets, in urban settings, forests, mountains, or even by the seaside.” Whether capturing the serenity of a backyard, the grandeur of mountainscapes, or the simple beauty of a teacup set, Tiko’s art immortalizes moments of tranquility by visualizing our connection with nature through gentle brushstrokes and undefined lines.
“I always feel that the world poses for me in little green pockets in an urban setting, forests, mountains, or by the seaside. I find everything to be beautiful, one simply must pay decent attention.”
Tiko’s journey as an artist would not be complete without a nod to the profound impact that volunteer-led art classes had in his youth in post-Soviet Armenia. Classes in art, music, and mythology opened his eyes to a world of possibilities. Today, Tigran fondly recalls those classes as the most memorable and mind-expanding experiences he has ever had. He sees COAF’s work as a continuation of the transformative opportunities he had in his youth, as COAF provides children with opportunities to discover their talents in the arts, engineering, language and other creative fields. “COAF provides similar services, reaching over a hundred thousand children,” Tiko says. “This is why I feel so passionate about this charity and strongly urge everyone who has the means to support it.”
The COAF team and the children of Armenia are deeply grateful for Tiko Makunts’ invaluable support. We invite you to explore his unique portfolio and join him in making a difference through art at www.makunts.com.
