PYSANKA: The Ukrainian Easter Egg

Annual exhibition on display until September 22
Activities for all ages throughout the month of March

New York City, February 17, 2013 – The spell of spring with its promise of renewal and rebirth ushers in the season for Easter traditions and the making of pysanky (Ukrainian decorated eggs). The month of March begins at The Ukrainian Museum with an exhibition of nearly 300 pysanky, and continues with a line up of workshops on pysanka decorating, a demonstration of this art form, and a baking class in Easter breads.

Pysanky, the unique Ukrainian Easter eggs known the world over for their intricate, colorful designs will be on display through June 30. Drawn from the Museum's extensive folk arts collection, the nearly 300 eggs are decorated in a variety of regional styles, rich colors, and assorted motifs; many are the work of acclaimed artist Sofika Zielyk. The hand-crafted pysanky are made using raw eggs, dyes, and beeswax in a wax-resist technique, similar to the batik method used on cloth. The process results in colorful eggs ornamented with an array of detailed geometric, floral, and faunistic symbols.

The art of creating Ukrainian pysanky (from the word pysaty – to write) has been handed down from generation to generation. This ancient art form is taught in workshops being offered by the Museum on Saturdays and Sundays, March 9–24. Adults and children over 12 learn the art the traditional way, and take their creations home. This year, on March 10, the Museum is offering a master class for adults with 2 or more years of experience making pysanky. A special workshop just for families with children ages 5–12 is scheduled on April 7. (Dates and fees listed below).

For one day only – on March 23 – visitors of all ages will have an opportunity to watch artists in action as they create beautiful pysanky. In addition to the demonstrations, the award-winning short film Pysanka by Slavko Nowytski will be shown continuously from 1–5 p.m.

The Ukrainian Easter Traditions workshop on March 16, for students age 16 and older, offers hands-on training in baking Easter breads and other traditions related to the holiday.

Pre-registration is required for some workshops. Call 212-228-0110 to book a seat. Museum members receive discounted rates.

About the Museum

The Ukrainian Museum acquires, preserves, and exhibits articles of artistic or historic significance to the rich cultural heritage of Ukrainian Americans; its collections include thousands of items of folk art, fine art, and archival material. At its founding in 1976 by the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America, the Museum was hailed as one of the finest achievements of Americans of Ukrainian descent. Since then, and particularly since its move in 2005 to a new, state-of-the-art building in Manhattan’s vibrant East Village, it has become known as one of the most interesting and dynamic smaller museums in New York City. Each year, the Museum organizes several exhibitions, publishes bilingual (English/Ukrainian) catalogues, and presents a wide range of public and educational programs, including concerts, films, lectures, courses, workshops, and special events.

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The Ukrainian Museum
222 East 6th Street (between Second and Third Avenues)
New York, NY 10003
T: 212.228.0110
F: 212.228.1947
info@ukrainianmuseum.org
www.ukrainianmuseum.org

Museum hours:
Wednesday–Sunday, 11:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Gift Shop * guided tours * school and family programs * reduced admission for students and seniors