Celebrating Ukrainian Culture With A Pysanka Workshop in Sonoita, AZ
A group of passionate Ukraine supporters gathered in the heart of Arizona wine country for a Ukrainian pysanka workshop. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and mountain views, participants learned the ancient art of decorating eggs with intricate and symbolic designs - an integral element of Ukrainian culture.
On May 31st in the town of Sonoita, a Pysanka workshop was co-hosted by the Ukrainian American Society of Tucson and a local bluegrass musician Jim Koweek. Pysanky, derived from the Ukrainian word "pysaty" (писати), meaning "to write," are intricate masterpieces created by "writing" designs with hot wax on an egg, or egg shell. Using a stylus and subtractive die techniques, eggs are sequentially dipped in colored dyes revealing the final design.
Under the guidance of Dr. Ihor Kunasz, Rebecca Lennon and Jim Koweek, workshop participants were provided with all the necessary tools to learned the traditional "batik" technique applied to egg decorating. This allowed them to create their own unique and meaningful pysanka egg to take home.
“What a special event for our little area! And for such a great cause. We learned some culture and some craft and made new friends. You could see the passion of the instructors!”
All proceeds from the event were dedicated to helping Ukrainian war victims. Thanks to the generosity of the workshop participants, $3000 was raised to benefit Razom for Ukraine non-profit. We extend our heartfelt “thank you” to everyone who donated and participated while experiencing Ukrainian culture. In these challenging times, connecting with Ukrainian culture is especially vital. With workshops like these, we continue to gather the community and standing with Ukraine. Through them, we contribute towards humanitarian relief and do what we can to support the victims of horrific war crimes committed by russia.
