This workshop at BAC is a unique opportunity to learn a skill that is traditionally passed down by the Matriarch of the family. Pysanky, also known as Ukrainian eggs, is a folk tradition that is both art and prayer. This meditative and communal experience is unlike any other art process and for many this workshop marks the beginning of a spring time family tradition that can be passed on and enjoyed for years to come. This tutorial will cover the history and traditions surrounding Pysanky, a demonstration, and independent practice session. The instructor will provide a variety of eggs, traditional and untraditional colored dyes, and tools. Participants will turn real eggs into works of art using a wax resist method similar to batik. A great deal of patience and concentration is required to complete a single egg, but it is very rewarding to reveal your hard work when the wax layers are taken off. In-person attendance will be extremely limited. Please bring a container or old egg carton to take home your creation.
BIO- The instructor, Jenny Santa Maria, has created many beautiful eggs that have been featured in numerous periodicals including the Wall St. Journal. She considers her work batik eggs because they have a more modern aesthetic and stretch the boundaries of the traditional process. For some eggs, a design is worked and reworked dozens of times until the design can be retired. From textiles to wrapping paper, many references have contributed to her body of work. She has been teaching pysanky for several years in various settings like libraries, artist retreats and museums but always appreciates intimate settings where families and friends can gather. Many years ago it all started with private lessons in her living room and she tries to bring that same special quality to each and every workshop. There is no greater joy than keeping this soulful process alive and bringing families together through the arts.
