One of my favorite Spring-time rituals is making Pysanky Easter eggs. When the days begin to lengthen and the nights hang on to the last bites of frost, I pull out my dyes, waxes, and kitska tools. During most of the year, my creative energy is devoted to writing. But this one time each year, I indulge in the the calming effect of the scent of melting beeswax and a steady hand. I keep my designs simple with folk symbols and colors representing luck, the cycle of life, abundance, and strength. I usually make just one or two eggs each Spring. Although I take pride in my creations, I’ve found that making Pysanky is more about the process than the outcome – as I sketch the ancient patterns of waves, spirals, triangles, flowers, suns, and spiders on an egg in wax, I slow down, reflect, and recharge. In that space, I connect to a forgotten world explained through nature and bound to the rhythms of light and dark.
Oh, Judy. So beautiful!!! Always have wanted to try this!
Thank you, Liz! I’d be happy to give a demo sometime:) Hope all is well
What a beautiful custom that you can pass on to your children. I wish I had a steady hand.
Thank you, Francesca! I miss you and hope to see you soon!