Family Care Foundation is the artistic handicraft centre of Gyumri. It was founded by Antonio Montalto, originally from Palermo, who came to Armenia in 1989, after the devastating earthquake of 1988 to assist with humanitarian projects. Since then, he has led numerous projects aiming to preserve the Armenian handicraft traditions. In Gyumri, their works can be seen around the city, in restaurants, museums and cafes. The studio welcomes visitors. Everybody is invited in to look at how pieces of rough clay are turned into the most delicate vases, plates and other tableware.
The handcrafted painted ceramics by Family Care are a type of earthenware made of clay from specially scouted locations in Armenia and are solely hand painted. Ceramic techniques are taken from age-old traditions of Armenian ceramics. This studio serves as a space for local young artisans to learn ceramics, develop their skills and then - most importantly - most of them remain here to work and create in this beautiful location in the historical centre of Gyumri.