Michael Aram is an award-winning American Armenian artist who has dedicated his career to craft-based design. Inspired by a trip to India at age 25, he established a second home and studio there, where he continues to draw creative inspiration today.
Trained as a painter, sculptor, and art historian, Michael has neatly applied his diverse background to the decorative arts. Lyrical and often witty, his work encompasses a wide range of media and reveals a rich and variant source of inspiration – nature, mythology, narrative storytelling, and purified form. Michael’s work is also a celebration of craft and age-old hand working traditions. It is the enduring fusion of these ideals – originality, narrative, and craftsmanship – that has become the hallmark of this gifted artist.
The World of Michael Aram
Michael, The Artist.
"My work combines the imperfections innate in the handmade process with the perfectly imperfect beauty of nature to create objects that reflect humanity."
- Michael Aram
The Making Process
Fascinated with the richness of the living crafts tradition which he discovered on his first trip to Delhi, Michael would seek out craftsmen in the old city by listening for the sound of metal being beaten and by searching for the aroma of baked molasses, a signal of the sand casting process. The artisans he encountered were making ordinary objects such as buckets, shovels, and scissors, but for Michael, their traditional techniques were extraordinary. Michael spent hours observing artisans as they made things the same way families had made them for centuries. Touched by the talent and humility of these gifted artisans, Michael set up a studio in India where he has created his work for over 30 years. Today, over 200 artisans work alongside him in his workshop where the same creative interaction between artist and artisan remains the source of every object that Michael makes.
Motif & Inspiration
Michael is highly inspired by his surroundings and often makes sculptures of objects that might otherwise be overlooked in the everyday. Nature is his biggest muse, as is the handmade process. His work combines the imperfections innate in the handmade process with the perfectly imperfect beauty of nature to create objects that reflect humanity. Many of his pieces are ingrained with a rich storyline, inherent symbolism, and deep-rooted meaning. Sometimes his work is simply an exploration and celebration of the handmade process.
Flagship Store
Michael Aram New York
Situated in the heart of Chelsea, the Michael Aram New York City Flagship Store is a testament to the brand. Originally the site of Michael’s NYC studio, the converted store now holds the full line of collections. Visitors might even bump into Michael himself, as he’s known to casually step in, often to help customers find their perfect piece.
Flagship Gallery
Michael Aram Los Angeles
Located in West Hollywood, the Michael Aram Gallery is the ideal destination for sophisticated collectors. Along with the full line of collections, the gallery holds exclusive furniture, lighting and limited edition sculptures. Visitors will experience full concierge service, whether designing a home or office, the store is sure to captivate and inspire with truly one-of-a-kind pieces.
Flagship Boutique
Michael Aram Miami
The jewel of Bal Harbour, the Michael Aram Boutique is the latest destination for the complete collector experience. Offering the full line of products, from the newest arrivals to classic collections, the fresh setting in South Florida will captivate and inspire. Whether looking for the perfect gift, or reimagining your home or office, Michael Aram Bal Harbor is a truly unique retail experience.
Find A Store
The World of Michael Aram
Michael Aram is proud to partner with national and independent retail stores around the world. Whether you’re looking for a special gift or something unique, our worldwide partners are sure to help you discover the world of Michael Aram.