Ukrainian Pysanky Workshop

Reconnect with the natural world and your creative spirit in a unique workshop and retreat on Sunday, March 30 from 10 am to 4 pm at Red Bee Apiary in beautiful Weston, CT.

Pysanky (peh-SAHN-key) is the ancient Ukrainian art of "writing" on eggs with beeswax and dyes using a process similar to batik. Originally created as personal talismans to protect against misfortune and to summon good health, love and prosperity, the practice is now considered as more of a decorative craft, though some maintain belief in the mystical powers of these objects.

In this hands-on workshop, led by a Ukrainian-American artist and teacher, the special meanings of Pysanky symbols, designs and colors will be revealed. Participants will receive customized kits containing traditional tools and materials, along with guided instruction, that will enable them to create magical masterpieces of their own.

Guests will be treated to an organic vegetarian lunch with the group, and honey-inspired snacks and refreshments will be available throughout the workshop. No experience is necessary. Seats are limited and early registration is encouraged.

The cost of the full-day workshop, which includes a Pysanky kit, full instruction, materials, supplies, food and refreshments is $150.

For more information about Red Bee Apiary, and to register for the class, please visit www.redbee.com.

Photo by Kristine Nora.

One of the most popular colors used in creating Pysanky is red. It is known as the "magical color of folklore" and symbolizes action, charity and spiritual awakening. The earliest pictograms used on eggs were likely derived from the natural world and include plants, animals, and celestial bodies. As civilization changed, so, too, did Pysanky design as reflected by the inclusion of religious and agricultural symbols such as houses of worship, farm tools and crops.

The meaning of color and traditional symbols will be covered in more detail in the workshop and, by the end of class, participants will be able to "read" and "write" Pysanky. Individual designs will be encouraged.