Interview
Nany Torossian
Born and raised in Beirut, Lebanon, during the civil war, Nany pursued her studies in Fine Arts amidst a culturally rich and diverse environment. Growing up with exposure to multiple languages and cultures, her work reflects a colorful and dynamic background. Following her graduation, she began teaching art and actively participated in numerous collective exhibitions in Beirut. In 2002, she relocated to Burlingame, California, where she became the first art teacher at KZV Armenian School in San Francisco and a dedicated advocate for promoting Armenian culture.
Nany is a founding member of the “Mayreni” Online School and has organized several community-focused projects, fundraisers, including painting workshops. Her creative journey has earned her recognition through numerous group exhibitions across California and the East Coast, as well as three solo exhibitions in the Bay Area. In September 2024, she conducted a successful workshop at the San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textile. Alongside her artistic practice, she continues to teach art and the Armenian language, inspiring the next generation to embrace creativity and cultural heritage.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I was born and grew up in Beirut, Lebanon, during the civil war. I am of Armenian origin. My grandparents survived the Armenian Genocide - that’s how I ended up being born away from my motherland. I pursued my studies in Fine Arts amidst a culturally rich and diverse environment. Growing up with exposure to multiple languages and cultures, my artwork reflects a colorful and dynamic background. Living through civil war, I learned to be resilient and hopeful - just like my grandparents. From my very first grade, I began to realize that art was my favorite subject and my source of power. My first paintbrush was made by me, using my own long, beautiful hair. Yes, one day, I cut a small piece of my hair to paint. Later, I upgraded to my mom’s Lancôme blush brush. Eventually, I finally had the chance to use a real brush.”
What inspires you?
“Many things inspire me - starting with Mother Nature, feelings, visiting museums, reading poems, books or good and bad news, emotions, music, traveling. I’ve always had this power in me to draw and paint, to create art from nothing. Inspiration comes to me naturally and organically, like breathing. I don’t force it or search for it - it comes to me.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“My artwork comes from my personal life - from my feelings and emotions, of course. The countries I’ve lived in, and the places I travel to, my surroundings - they all affect me. As I am sensitive, it reflects accordingly in my artwork. Yes, there are hidden meanings in some of my art. Not everyone can see them.”
How would you describe your work?
“My work is a mirror of my soul and feelings.”
Which artists influence you most?
“Even though in high school my nickname was Picasso, I am more influenced by French artists Jean Carzou (French-Armenian) and Bernard Buffet. But I don’t work like them.”
“My work is a mirror of my soul and feelings.”
What is your creative process like?
“My creative process begins with intuition rather than a fixed plan. I often start with an idea or emotion, then let the work evolve organically. I respond to color, shape, and mood in the moment. I often listen to the same music repeatedly until I’m satisfied with my artwork. Then, a form or a composition emerges. It’s like poetry - the piece itself takes over and starts to talk by itself.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“An artist’s role in society is big - if they are understood by the public. Artists bring people together, no matter their race, religion, or culture. They offer healing, hope, and love. Art can heal others and raise awareness. I believe artists, art centers, and museums should work more to attract, involve, and engage people, to inspire creativity. I think our world would be a better place to live in. Artists can also critique their surroundings - Banksy is a good example here.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“In September 2024, I held an art workshop at the San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles in California. A group of children and adults worked on portraits of their mothers after I gave them instructions and shared some information about Modigliani’s life and style. There was such an amazing energy in the room - we all had so much fun! I’m excited to collaborate with other museums if they are interested. Then, in October 2024, I had a successful solo exhibition titled “On Maps and Newspapers” at the Burlingame Public Library in California. Despite the rainy weather, many of my artworks were sold. I am so proud of myself!”
Website: artofnany.com
Instagram: @artofnany
