About Alex

My Story

From Persian Heritage to Minneapolis

I am the product of five generations of rug merchants, weavers, and artists. My family's story begins in Persia, where my great-great-grandfather first learned the ancient art of rug making in the bazaars of what is now Iran. With 38 years of experience in both the retail and wholesale rug industry, I've built my career on this foundation of craftsmanship and trade knowledge.

Growing up, I was surrounded by the rich textures, colors, and stories of antique rugs. My childhood was spent in workshops and showrooms, learning to distinguish a fine Tabriz from a Kashan, understanding the symbolic language woven into every design, and appreciating the countless hours of labor that go into each masterpiece. This immersive education gave me extensive expertise across antique, vintage, and contemporary handmade rugs.

But my journey wasn't simply about inheriting a business—it was about inheriting a passion and refining it through decades of hands-on experience. I remember the first time I truly understood the magic of a hand-knotted rug. I was seven years old, and my grandfather showed me how each knot was a decision, an intention, a small prayer of sorts. He told me that weavers pour their souls into their work, and that every imperfection is what makes a rug authentic, human, and beautiful.

The Minneapolis Chapter

I founded Cyrus Artisan Rugs in Minneapolis, Minnesota, establishing a strong foundation within the design and architecture community. Minneapolis has a thriving arts scene and a population that appreciates quality and story—the perfect home for my family's legacy. Over the years, I've built showrooms with an exceptional depth of inventory, widely regarded as one of the most extensive and carefully curated rug selections in the Midwest.

Later, I expanded with Woven Arts, a space dedicated to contemporary textile art and the evolution of weaving traditions. While Cyrus Artisan Rugs honors the classical and antique—including a highly selective collection of one-of-a-kind antique and vintage rugs, including Persian antiques chosen for their artistry, provenance, and lasting value—Woven Arts looks forward, showcasing how ancient techniques can create modern masterpieces.

Expertise & Global Partnerships

I produce exclusive private-label rug collections, personally overseeing design development, material selection, and production quality. Working directly with some of the most skilled and established weaving workshops in India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Turkey, Morocco, and Nepal, I ensure authenticity and exceptional craftsmanship in every piece.

I collaborate with leading interior designers and architects throughout the United States, supporting projects that require exceptional flexibility in custom sizing, color development, texture, and weave. I deliver tailored rug solutions for high-end residential and commercial projects, balancing design intent, durability, and functional performance.

Philosophy & Approach

For me, this work transcends commerce. It's about cultural preservation, artistic education, and creating connections. Every client I work with becomes part of a larger story—they're not just purchasing a rug; they're becoming custodians of a piece of history. I'm known for seamlessly blending traditional rug-making techniques with refined, contemporary design sensibilities.

I believe in giving back to the weaving communities that create these treasures. Through fair trade practices and direct relationships with artisan cooperatives, I ensure that the people behind these masterpieces receive the recognition and compensation they deserve.