Art of Imagination

Discover the artistry and ingenuity of the late Abraham Megerdichian, whose intricate metal sculptures bring industrial materials to life in unexpected forms. Crafted from scrap metal, this exhibition showcases an array of machined creations, each one embodying Abraham’s skill and creativity. Explore over 25 sculptures, each with its unique story and craftsmanship, as you dive into a celebration of metalworking that transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Abraham Megerdichian was a Massachusetts-born artist, machinist, and first-generation Armenian American. Born in 1923 to Armenian immigrants, Abraham graduated from Rindge Technical School in Cambridge before enlisting in the Navy, where he served in the Pacific. His military experience and machine skills from school guided him in a lifelong career as a machinist.

Abraham married, raised three children in Cambridge, and began making practical metal objects at home in the 1960s. From pans and candle holders to motorized woodworking machines, his creations became more intricate over time. Eventually, he began crafting everyday objects—like antique cars, bicycles, and telephones—from brass, aluminum, copper, and stainless steel. Each sculpture was carefully machined, often with moving parts or small elements that hint at the functionality of the real object. While many artists might focus on aesthetics, Abraham’s background as a machinist led him to prioritize both form and mechanical integrity, resulting in pieces that are beautiful to look at and technically impressive. His works, originally created as gifts for family and friends, were meant to be touched, held, and cherished—a unique blend of art and utility, carefully crafted to make each recipient feel special.

His pieces are characterized by meticulous detail and surprising functionality. His miniature Antique Car showcases fine craftsmanship in the intricate assembly of brass, aluminum, and rubber. Violin with Bow and Case captures the delicacy of a musical instrument in solid metal. Abraham’s creations, like the Cash Register and Candlestick Telephone, evoke memories of iconic items from American life, made timeless through his devotion to detail.

The exhibition “Art of Imagination” is a chance to experience these intimate works up close. Abraham’s art speaks to his dedication to craftsmanship, his love for his family and friends, and his passion for transforming something industrial into something deeply personal. His legacy invites us to see metal not just as a material for machinery but as a medium for storytelling, memory, and connection.