Exploring Armenia Through Art: Aida Baghdasaryan’s Innovative Doll-Making Workshop in Shanghai

On November 12, 2024, Aida Baghdasaryan, an Armenian educator, led a captivating cultural workshop at the International Cultural Exchange School (ICES) of Donghua University (DHU) in Shanghai. The workshop aimed to introduce Armenia’s rich heritage to a diverse audience of Chinese and international teachers and students.
The program offered a comprehensive exploration of Armenia’s history and cultural characteristics—both historical and contemporary—and an overview of the country’s renowned tourist attractions and significant monuments. Aida Baghdasaryan also highlighted the Armenian national costume, discussing its historical context and relevance in modern society.
One of the workshop’s key features was a hands-on activity where participants crafted Armenian dolls dressed in traditional attire. This engaging experience allowed attendees to combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills, resulting in a deeply enriching learning experience. The event attracted not only Chinese participants but also international educators who were enthusiastic about engaging with Armenian art and ethnography.
In a special moment, Aida Baghdasaryan wore a replica of the Armenian national costume from the Karin region, a distinguished piece from the ChinArmArt collection—the only collection of traditional Armenian garments in China. Several other regional costumes from the ChinArmArt collection were also showcased, further enhancing the cultural exchange.