Interfaith Neighbors

Pysanky: The Ancient Art of Ukrainian Egg Decorating Demonstration

115 Atkins Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712

11:00:00

Event Details:

March 11- 12-2 pm
$20 Suggested donation benefitting a relief effort for Ukrainian families.*

Celebrate the spring at Kula Farm with Teaching Artist, Jenny Santa Maria, who will be demonstrating the ancient art of Pysanky, or Ukrainian egg decorating. To create an intricately designed egg, a special writing tool draws on the egg with wax. As the egg is dipped in various saturated dyes, the wax preserves each step. When the wax is removed, the final design is revealed. During the demonstration, Jenny will explain the history of the art while creating decorated eggs, which will be given to individuals in the audience. Examples of her finished work, references, and books will be provided for additional learning opportunities. All ages are welcome to attend. Registration is required email: [email protected]

ABOUT THE PRESENTER: Jenny Santa Maria is a multifaceted talent as a teaching artist, art coach, and exhibiting artist from Farmingdale, NJ. She has created countless beautiful eggs over the years, many of which have been featured in notable publications, including the Wall Street Journal. She refers to her work as batik eggs, though the process is rooted in the traditional art of pysanky. Her work blends a modern aesthetic with personal symbolism, pushing the boundaries of traditional techniques. While associated with spring, Jenny designs eggs year-round using eggs from her free-range hens and beeswax from her own hives. Jenny has been teaching pysanky for many years in diverse settings, including museums, galleries, libraries, and artist retreats throughout New England. Her enthusiasm for teaching is matched by her passion for exploring new techniques within this medium. While eggs themselves are ephemeral, she believes that the true art lies in sharing the process, preserving this folk tradition, and empowering others to recognize their own creative potential. These carefully designed workshops foster a sense of shared humanity, encouraging participants to celebrate their cultural heritage while engaging in the creative process. The connections forged through this shared experience are among the greatest gifts that this precious art practice can offer. This meaningful and inclusive environment is a key reason why participants consistently leave her workshops with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the art, the culture, the history, and themselves.

*Funds from this event will benefit local Ukrainian activist and artist Natalie Halibut and her direct service to the people of Ukraine. 
"During my volunteer work in Ukraine’s hospitals this past summer, I witnessed the immense suffering of wounded soldiers—former civilians who courageously volunteered to defend their homeland. These hospitals often lack even the most basic resources, from medical supplies to drinkable water. In response, I’ve purchased crutches, extra food, bottled water, and started a library to help free their minds from the trauma of war. Many soldiers face complex fractures or amputations, requiring adaptive clothing, which volunteer seamstresses in Kyiv create free of charge using donated fabrics.

From afar, my husband and I remain deeply committed to this cause, working through Ukrainian friends to provide medical supplies, air mattresses, nourishing food, clothing, and other necessities crucial for recovery. Every small action has made a big difference.

We are seeking funds to continue this effort."

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