Surrounded by artists as a child, Nora Aykaz jokes that “art was genetically embedded in me.” Indeed, with a famous sculptor as a father and a writer as a mother, it came as no surprise the Aykaz would pursue the creative arts. After studying at the Terevan State Academy of Art and Theatre, Aykaz went on to be an award-winning actress in the ARMMONO International Film Festival. While Aykaz is well-known for her pantomime and video arts prowess, she has also made a name for herself in the fine arts circles of Armenia, Russia, and Paris. Aykaz cites anthropological writings, history, religious texts, philosophy, and everyday encounters as influences for her paintings.