Hagop Ari Sheuhmelian is the force behind the couture house of Pogah. The origins of his love for artistic _expression came together through the rich cultural lifestyles provided from growing up in the two countries of Lebanon and Syria.The seeds of a future professional were first planted amongst a focused curriculum at the University of Beirut. Ari’s strong sense of dedication earned him a Masters Degree in Business Administration. Once entering his chosen profession in the United States, it would still be a series of years before the voice of change came calling.Upon seeking a more creative outlet to express, Ari sought to undertake the fashion design program offered at ESMOD (Ecole Superieure des Arts et Techniques de la Mode) in Paris, France. Fully engaged in his new arena made way for achieving another completed degree and also an invitation to participate in the highly prestigious and very selective curriculum offered from La Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne.The art of couture served Ari’s vision fruitfully. The ongoing opportunity to produce original works of beauty awarded him a first place award in the EXPO 98 Design 21 UNESCO held in Lisbon, Portugal. Presently, the selected costume remains on display in the Fellissimo Group of Headquarters in Japan.Pressing forward after his studies came to a close, Ari took employment at the renowned house of couturier Dominique Sirop. Although his stay would last three full years, it was only six months after first beginning work that Ari would also debut his own collection.Launched in 1999, Pogah (Hagop written backwards) was first presented in Syria. Striking to find a balance between both design companies, Ari’s only time away from Paris would be spent producing two couture shows yearly with novelty prêt a porter trunk shows unraveled within his salon in Syria.The first couple of years of the new millennium came bearing gifts of golden opportunities. The first granted Pogah to be selected in participating at the Saint-Etienne Biennale, an exhibition of arts taking place every two years. The second blessing came in the form of a complete life-shifting experience. Ari’s continuous search of new outlets for his creativity were once again answered through a vacation taken in Los Angeles. By the end of 2004 the house of Pogah would begin to slowly drift west.Ari and his signature line of Pogah have arrived to begin a new chapter in the City of Angels. Los Angeles has fascinated Ari’s artistry, finding his new home to be grounds for bountiful horizons not yet fully tapped. Ari and Pogah once again strike a fresh chord.
