Arts Directory

About

Artist Bio

Yevheniia Bazaliy is an Ukranian folk artist. Born in Ukraine, she lives in Columbia (South Carolina) since 2015. Yevheniia’s interest in Pysanka was inspired by her maternal grandfather, who was a native of the Lemko region of the country. Pysanka practice has grown throughout her life with guidance from various artists and through participation in folk festivals. It is a part of her life that she loves to share by conducting workshops and giving lessons. In 2020-2021 she was a recipient of a South Carolina Arts Commission (SCAC) Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Initiative grant and helped to promote Pysanka art in South Carolina.

Artist Statement

Pysanka is a unique and beautiful art form that involves using melted beeswax to draw designs on eggs, which are then dyed in layers to create stunning and intricate patterns. The process is meticulous and requires patience, precision, and attention to detail. Each egg tells a story through its unique patterns and colors, and the tradition of Pysanka has been passed down for generations.

My goal as a Pysanka artist is to preserve this traditional art form and share it with others. I believe that Pysanka is not just a beautiful decoration, but a symbol of cultural heritage and identity. Through my workshops and lessons, I hope to inspire others to learn this art form and keep it alive.

In my work, I draw inspiration from the natural world, traditional Ukrainian motifs, and my own imagination. Each egg is a canvas for me to express my creativity and explore new techniques. I am constantly learning and experimenting with new designs, colors, and materials to push the boundaries of this ancient art form.

Pysanka is not just a form of art for me, but a way of life. It is a connection to my cultural heritage, a symbol of my identity, and a means of expressing my creativity. I am grateful for the opportunity to share this art form with others.

Description of Offerings

A Pysanka art class would typically focus on teaching students the Ukrainian folk art of decorating Easter eggs using a wax-resist method. The class would typically cover the history and cultural significance of Pysanky, as well as the techniques and materials required to create them.

The class would likely start with an introduction to the tools and materials needed for Pysanky, such as beeswax, dyes, kistka (specialized wax stylus), and eggshells. Yevheniia would demonstrate the process of applying wax to create designs on the eggshell, then dipping the egg in dye to create patterns and color contrasts. The students would then have an opportunity to practice the technique themselves, with guidance and support from the folk artist.

Throughout the class, students would also learn about the symbolic meanings behind different colors and patterns in Pysanky. They would also learn about the regional variations in Pysanky styles, and how different cultural traditions have influenced the art form.

By the end of the class, students would have gained an understanding and appreciation for the traditional art of Pysanky, as well as the skills and knowledge to create their own unique designs. Students would also have gained an appreciation for the cultural and artistic diversity of different communities and traditions around the world.

Materials Provided to School or Organizations by Teaching Artist:

• Kistka, eggshells, dye, candles, beeswax, vinegar.

Physical and Technical Requirements of a School or Organization:

• Adequate classroom space with tables and chairs for students to work on.
• Optional: a projector or large display screen for demonstrating techniques and designs to the class.