Pysanky from the Prairies

Hello, my name is Anastasiya and I am a Pysanka enthusiast! I was born and raised in Ukraine, thus Ukrainian culture, traditions and art are very close to my heart and soul.  In Ukraine I used to go to an art school (extra curricular activity, 5 times a week, after regular school from grade 5-9), this is where I learned Pysanka art. We only did a few classes (maybe 4), but I love decorative, traditional art!!

 
I live in Estevan now. When we immigrated to Canada, this was our first home. I also lived in Regina for awhile to go to University and for ten years I was a member of Poltava Ensemble of Song Music and Dance in Regina.

Recently I have rediscovered Pysanka-writing art after encountering a great community of Pysanka artists online. They have introduced me to Ukrainian EggCessories that provide top-notch quality of dyes, kistkas and second to none customer service!

I have three personal pysanky tips to share: 

1. Spend extra time planning a design using pencil and tape-measurer, it pays to have even divisions and lines. 
2. Make sure you plug the ends really well so as to not let color seep inside the egg (it causes all sorts of problems and leaky colors if it does).
3. Invest in good tools (I use electric kistka, black beeswax and dyes from Ukrainian EggCessories), then the work goes quick, it is enjoyable and easy.
 

I love creating new Pysanka designs and trying new techniques, colours and divisions; I sell my Pysanky to raise the money for local charities. Plus, in Canada it’s well understood and appreciated.

For me, however, writing Pysanky is very natural.   It's what I grew up with. ~ Anastasiya Shved