How Museum Objects Inspired the Graphic Novel 'Fustuk'

The Armenian Museum of America welcomes Russ Manning Award-nominated writer and illustrator Robert Mgrdich Apelian for this month's Treasures from Our Collection video. Robert talks about his graphic novel, Fustuk, and how he was inspired by the Armenian and Persian cultures to create a world for his story. The book references Armenian art and artifacts, many examples of which you can find in our galleries.

Fustuk follows an Armenian family in a fantasy version of the medieval Persian Empire who strike a deal with a magical div to save the life of their mother. The book weaves together multiple timelines in a story of Armenian family and food, speaking to a diasporic culture and how those within it relate to their different worlds."

The Treasures from Our Collection video series is generously sponsored by Michele M. Kolligian, President of the Museum’s Board of Trustees.