The Tradition of Pysanky

Music Education Specialist

VOICE & PIANO Kathy Lassche 250.709.2541

www.mulberrylanemusic.com

Pysanka is the decoration of eggs in the ancient Ukrainian wax resist method. The name derives from the word pysaty which means ‘to write’. This tradition has been passed down through the generations for more than 2000 years to mark the renewal of nature and life in the spring.

The Tradition of Beeswax is Pysanky heated by candle in a type of stylus called a kistka, and the designs are written onto the egg with intention of goodwill and fortune toward the recipient of this special gift. The egg is then dipped into coloured dyes and alternatly preserved by more layered wax designs until the process is complete. The wax can then be melted and wiped away to reveal the multicolored designs, before it is varnished and blown out to empty the contents. Early dyes were made from natural substances, such as tree bark, onion skins, deer horns, walnut, berries, seeds or moss. These days they are easier to prepare from kits that can be bought from craft supply stores and come in a wide verity of colours. There are many beliefs in the Pysanky tradition, some of which persist today. Eggs were believed to hold great power. An egg decorated with a chicken might be gifted to a newly married couple in hopes it would aid fertility. An egg gifted to a farmer might have wheat and rake designs to bring a bountiful harvest. Poppies are a most beloved Ukrainian design that represent love, beauty and wisdom. Darker colours were usually preserved for older recipients, while mostly white and lighter designs for children. Decorated eggs were also thought to protect a home from fire, promote good health, control the weather and prevent evil spirits from doing mischief. Today the tradition persists and grows, passed down from grandparents to grandchildren who preserve this knowledge. The symbols continue to evolve to include religious and geographic influences, but the underlying purpose remains the same. The pysanka is a talisman of love and good wishes toward family and friends.

Haley Godolphin Pysanky artist in the Cowichan Valley www.cowichanpysanky@gmail.com