Saskatoon residents connect with Ukrainian culture through pysanky making classes

(Carla Shynkaruk/CTV News)

The art of Ukrainian Easter egg making is steeped in tradition, spanning centuries, and the Ukrainian Museum of Canada in Saskatoon is seeing a lot of interest in their classes.

With Ukraine being on the minds of many since Russia’s invasion in 2022, classes are full of Ukrainians and non-Ukrainians alike.

When Desieree Vandenhoven heard about the pysanka, or Ukrainian Easter egg writing class, at the Ukrainian Museum of Canada, she wanted to try her hand at it. She’s not Ukrainian, but Dutch. Current world events were part of her decision to join.

“Ukraine is in the news a lot, and so, you know, to kind of show maybe a little bit of support and get to know a little bit more,” Vandenhoven told CTV News.

She’s visiting from Alberta for a work conference and wanted to use her Saturday wisely, so learning this art form was recommended. Others taking part were also aware of current global events involving Ukraine.

“It’s always nice to be in a community in times like this, especially with the news just coming in. It’s good to be able to connect with culture,” Katie Carbno, who is taking the class with her mom and aunt, said.

The eggs used are raw, and working with a candle, beeswax, and dye requires a lot of careful attention.

Karen Pidskalny runs the educational programs at the museum and says they’ve expanded their classes, which fill up quickly.

“We have family pysanky classes and pysanky and wine. We have some specialized classes, which are etching. There’s also natural dyes, and we have intermediate and master classes this year,” Pidskalny said.

This instructor has been writing Easter eggs since she was a child and shares her expertise with the students, explaining the cultural significance in the process.

“We also touch on the symbols and motifs, so people understand that whatever you write on your peasant cart is kind of like your old secret code,” she said.

There were about 15 people in the weekend beginner class, but some of the creations were impressive.

“It’s amazing. Like, you know, I almost think two hours is too short. The time flew by,” Vandenhoven said.

Many students purchased kits from the museum shop afterwards, so they can make pysanky at home. The museum is now running low on supplies, with so many students inspired by the process.

“So, whether you feel like your lines are straight or not, it doesn’t matter. It’s about the process of making the pysanky,” Pidskalny said.

Classes for pysanky making and other Ukrainian traditional activities can be found on their website.