21. Community "Let's Write a Pysanka" Beginner Workshop - Nadia Gennings - Saturday July 20th - 1:00 to 3:00pm

The Pysanka Workshop is for those who have little to no experience with this ancient Ukrainian tradition. You will learn the process and how to use the tools (kistka, wax, dyes) to create traditional pysanka designs.

Class Outline:

• At each table will be the following tools for making pysanky: Kistka, holder, paper plate, pencil, bees wax, vinegar, paper towel, handouts,

• Participants are invited to look at various beginner pysanky which have been made using a wax-resistant method.
• Handouts will be distributed showing basic divisions and examples of pysanky. Short discussion will follow explaining significance of designs, colours and motifs. Safety precautions will be stressed.
• Eggs will be distributed, and instructions given to start. Participants will have time to explore and try writing the designs on a clean white chicken egg with melted beeswax.
• Aniline dyes are provided to dip their pysanky into various vibrant colours - yellow, blue, red, green, black.
• Information about the history, meanings of the colors and symbols in this Ukrainian art will be shared during the workshop.
• Participants should be able to complete at least 2 pysanky.

Students will learn:

• The history and symbolism of Ukrainian pysanky
• How to properly hold an egg and control the kistka and flowing wax.
• The process from start to finish of making a pysanka – white egg, dye progression from yellow to orange to red to black. Other colours (blue, pink, purple) will also be available.

Recommended number of participants:between 15 and 20