Ukrainian EggCessories Pysanky Retreat 2024

Ukrainian EggCessories Pysanky Retreat 2024: “Pysanky and the Poppy”

Dates: July 18–21, 2024  
Location: Fanshawe College Residence & Conference Centre, London, Ontario

Overview

The 2024 Pysanky Retreat was a vibrant celebration of creativity, tradition, and community, themed around the beloved poppy—a symbol of remembrance, hope, and peace in Ukrainian culture. Over four days, pysankari from across North America gathered to share their passion, expand their skills, and forge lasting friendships.

Retreat Highlights

Welcoming Venue: Fanshawe College provided a bright, air-conditioned space with plenty of room for egging, workshops, and socializing. Attendees enjoyed the comfort of four-bedroom suites and the convenience of free parking and Wi-Fi.

Poppy Theme: The poppy motif inspired everything from workshop projects to retreat décor, honoring its deep roots in Ukrainian art and embroidery.

Workshops & Presentations: Renowned pysanky artists led a range of hands-on workshops, catering to all skill levels. Participants honed their techniques, learned new designs, and explored the symbolism behind this ancient art form.

Bio Book Keepsake: Thanks to Jeanne Curtis, everyone received a personalized bio book—a cherished tradition that helps attendees connect and stay in touch long after the retreat.

Egg Exchange: The magical Friday night egg exchange brought excitement and surprise, as each participant received a unique pysanka created by a fellow attendee.

Mini Marketplace: On Saturday, the retreat opened its doors to the local London community for a bustling mini-market. Vendors offered pysanky supplies, eggshells, jewelry, books, and more—plus beginner workshops for newcomers.

Fundraiser for Ukraine: The Saturday raffle featured donated pysanky and prizes, raising funds to support pysankari in Ukraine. Ukrainian EggCessories contributed four themed baskets, and the community’s generosity shone through.

Goodie Bags & Potluck Table: Attendees exchanged thoughtful, poppy-themed gifts and shared treats from their hometowns (all nut-free!), adding to the retreat’s spirit of generosity and fun.

Pysanky Half-Done (PHD) Basket: Eggers brought “pysanky half done” to share and finish, sparking collaboration and creativity at every table.
Slideshow & Memories: A slideshow of attendees’ pysanky was displayed throughout the retreat, later shared on YouTube, capturing the artistry and joy of the event.

Community & Connection

The retreat fostered a warm, inclusive atmosphere where seasoned artists and newcomers alike could connect, share stories, and learn from each other. The UE Pysanky Retreat Facebook group kept everyone informed and engaged before, during, and after the event.

Safety & Comfort

All meals were nut-free, with special dietary needs accommodated. Candles were replaced with safe electric wax melters and heat guns. COVID protocols followed current guidelines, with masks optional.

Extra Touches

Random prize giveaways and Kathy’s signature surprises kept spirits high. Volunteers and instructors made sure every detail ran smoothly—from distributing goody bags to guiding workshops.

Looking Back

The 2024 retreat was a heartfelt celebration of pysanky, poppies, and the power of community. Whether learning a new technique, sharing a meal, or exchanging a beautifully crafted egg, every attendee left with new inspiration, deeper friendships, and memories to last a lifetime.