Introduction

Come celebrate the spring at Shelburne Craft School with this unique opportunity to learn a skill and folk tradition that is traditionally passed down by the Matriarch of the family. Pysanky is an ancient art of creating beautiful designs on eggs. Patterns are drawn on the egg with hot beeswax, which then protects the covered areas from the dye that is applied. By repeating this process with different colors of dye, a multi-colored pattern is built up. The wax is removed at the end to reveal the colors that were covered up at each stage. A great deal of patience and concentration is required to complete a single egg, but it is very rewarding to reveal your hard work when the wax is taken off.
All skill levels and ages can create an original pysanka. This workshop will cover the history and traditions surrounding pysanky, demonstration, and an independent practice session. The instructor will provide a variety of organic eggs and dyes; all supplies are included. This meditative and communal experience is unlike any other art process and for many this workshop marks the beginning of a springtime family tradition that can be passed on and enjoyed for years to come.
No prerequisite skills required.

Jennifer Santa Maria Experience: I've taught Ukrainian egg decorating and techniques in a variety of esteemed settings for over a decade.
I have instructed several groups and held demonstrations at many Art Centers, Art Museums, Libraries, Garden Centers and Galleries on the East Coast including Brattleboro Art Museum in VT, Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton NJ, Newport Art Museum in RI, the Chapel of Sacred Mirrors in Wappingers Falls, NY and the Center for Contemporary Art in Hudson Valley.