A life shaped by photography
David discovered photography at seven. In his Golden Roots interview, he describes a creative practice that has helped him through difficult periods and become central to his life. He builds images around an inner vision, using composition, symbolism and transformation to express what an ordinary photograph may leave unseen.
His Mandragoras work explores human behaviour through the unsettling symbolism of the mandrake root. Across his work, difficult emotions coexist with hope: even an image born from pain or despair can contain a point of light.
Armenian roots, shared memory
Living abroad has made David’s connection to his Armenian roots especially important. In Crete, his Armenian Genocide memorial project brought together photography and the memories of the local Armenian community. Stories passed down through parents and grandparents became part of a conversation about identity, loss and what future generations should remember.
For David, photography can carry these experiences beyond one family or community. His ambition is to bring Armenian art and photography to international audiences while retaining the personal honesty that gives his work meaning.
Why he is working with Golden Roots
Golden Roots is helping tell David’s story through this documentary. He is seeking the Foundation’s support to take the next steps in his career and connect his work with a wider cultural audience.
That ambition connects with the charter’s goals of sharing Armenian culture in Armenia and abroad, strengthening links with diaspora communities and cultural institutions, and supporting educational and professional development. The intended benefit extends beyond one artist’s career: giving more people access to Armenian stories, artistic expression and living cultural heritage.
What grant support could make possible
In the interview, David explains that financial support would not change his artistic drive. It could help him be present where opportunities arise: at exhibitions, in conversations with curators and among people who can bring his work to new audiences.
The proposed purpose of a Golden Roots grant is to help him develop that reach. Support could contribute to preparing and presenting his work, participating in relevant exhibitions and building relationships with cultural organisations. Specific opportunities, costs and deliverables would be set out in a proposal for assessment.
David is seeking support; no grant award or funding amount is announced here. Any grant is subject to eligibility, an agreed purpose and budget, available funds and the Foundation’s approval.