Pysanky

Pysanky
Christina Čučković, Janice Čučković, Mary Kilbreath, Terenia Samanica
March 26 – April 26, 2025
Meet the artists: Saturday, April 26 @ 1:00 p.m.

The Judith & Norman Alix Art Gallery (JNAAG) is pleased to present Pysanky, a pop-up exhibition that showcases the timeless and intricate art of decorating eggs through the ancient Ukrainian wax-resistance technique. This one-of-a-kind exhibition, on display from March 26 to April 26, 2025, features over 50 remarkable pysanky—each one an enchanting testament to cultural heritage, creativity, and meticulous craftsmanship.

This exhibition brings together four talented area artists, Christina Čučković, Janice Čučković, Mary Kilbreath and Terenia Samanica, who have put their own unique spin on this centuries-old tradition. From traditional motifs like fish, vibrant flowers, and celestial patterns, to contemporary takes featuring circus scenes and geometric designs, Pysanky showcases the limitless creativity of artists working in this form.

Pysanky, the art of decorating eggs using a wax-resistance method, dates back thousands of years, with origins in ancient Ukraine. The word pysanky derives from the Ukrainian verb pysaty (писати), meaning “to write,” highlighting the method of drawing intricate designs on the surface of a raw egg. Traditionally used in Ukrainian rituals, particularly around Easter, these eggs symbolize themes of life, rebirth, and the changing seasons. With a history so rich in symbolism, each pysanka (singular of pysanky) carries a deeper meaning—whether it be a representation of hope, protection, or spiritual connection.

This exhibition is best experienced in person, where visitors can get up close and personal with the minute details and vibrant colors that make each egg a small, mesmerizing work of art. Whether you're a lifelong admirer of Ukrainian culture or new to the world of pysanky, this exhibition will captivate and inspire.

This exhibition includes an interactive station! Take a seat and explore the geometric patterns and vibrant colours used in this traditional craft. Experiment with symbols and motifs used in pasanka to create your own on paper.

The community is invited to meet the artists on Saturday, April 26 @ 1:00 p.m. This is the last day the exhibition will be on view and it’s your chance to ask the artists about their process and inspirations!

Don’t miss out on this breathtaking exploration of history and creativity. Join us at the Judith & Norman Alix Art Gallery from March 26 – April 26, 2025, for an unforgettable visual experience.

Image courtesy of Mary Kilbreath.