Discover Nora Chavooshian: Sculptor & Designer

Can an artist truly transcend the boundaries of a single medium? Nora Chavooshian's life and career resoundingly answer with a resounding "yes." From the tangible forms of sculpture to the ephemeral magic of cinema, Chavooshian's artistic journey weaves a rich tapestry of creativity, exploring themes of identity, heritage, and the human condition.

Born in Philadelphia on October 25, 1953, Chavooshian's artistic inclinations emerged early, leading her to the prestigious Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and later, the San Francisco Art Institute. Graduating in 1974, she embarked on a path that would intertwine fine art with the world of film, a cross-pollination that continues to inform and enrich her work to this day. Her arrival in Los Angeles marked not just a geographical shift, but an expansion of her creative horizons. This vibrant city, a hub of cinematic innovation, provided fertile ground for Chavooshians burgeoning talents.

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Chavooshian's artistic practice encompasses a wide range of media, from intricate sculptures to large-scale installations. Her work often incorporates found objects, natural materials, and handcrafted elements, reflecting a deep engagement with the tactile world. "Lace," a poignant homage to her maternal grandmother, exemplifies her ability to infuse personal narrative into her art. The sculpture, featuring a cascade of clear resin that transforms into delicate lacework, spills from a simulated crack in the wall, blurring the lines between the tangible and the ethereal, the personal and the universal.

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Her contributions to the film industry are equally impressive. As a production designer and set decorator, Chavooshian has lent her artistic vision to films such as After Hours (1985), The Beastmaster (1982), and Eight Men Out (1988). Collaborating with renowned directors like Martin Scorsese and John Sayles, she has crafted immersive cinematic worlds, her sculptural sensibilities evident in the meticulously designed sets and props. This unique blend of artistic disciplines allows her to create environments that are not mere backdrops, but integral elements of the storytelling process.

Chavooshian's artistic explorations extend beyond the traditional gallery setting. Her commitment to social justice is interwoven with her creative practice, finding expression in public installations and community engagement. She has exhibited her work at the Trenton City Museum, using her platform to advocate for police reform and social change. Her voice, both artistic and activist, resonates with a powerful call for a more just and equitable world. Her 2020 solo exhibition at Denise Bibro Fine Art in Chelsea, New York, showcased not only recent sculptures but also collaborations with Trama Textiles, a Mayan women's cooperative, demonstrating her commitment to ethical and collaborative artistic practices. This exhibition, a testament to her continued exploration of her Armenian heritage, provided a powerful lens through which she examined universal truths.

In 2024, the Lagstein Gallery in Nyack, New York, hosted a solo exhibition of Chavooshians work, further solidifying her reputation as a significant force in the contemporary art world. This exhibition highlighted the evolution of her artistic language, her continued experimentation with materials and form, and her ongoing dialogue with the cultural narratives that shape our understanding of the world. Her forthcoming exhibition at the Hudson Guild Gallery in New York, scheduled for February 13, 2025, promises to unveil new facets of her artistic vision, continuing her exploration of the human condition and the intricate tapestry of life.

Nora Chavooshian's career exemplifies the boundless nature of artistic expression. Her work, whether sculpted in resin or crafted on a film set, invites viewers to engage with the world in new and meaningful ways. Her dedication to her craft, her commitment to social justice, and her ongoing exploration of her Armenian heritage converge to create a body of work that is both deeply personal and profoundly universal.