Ukrainian Culture ~ Keeping Traditions Alive |
Ukrainian Folk Art and CraftsEvery culture is created from the various aspects of everyday living, past and present. Every action and creation is influenced by the way people feel, think and live. It is a blueprint that cultures all over the world have in common, including the Ukraine. To appreciate Ukrainian culture and its unique components, one has to understand the country’s history. Wars, famine and natural disasters have shaken the country’s foundation many times over and brought its people closer together than many of its surrounding neighbors. Relying on what God and nature gave them, talented artists created some of the most beautiful arts and crafts, and have continued to do so until this day. The Ukrainian people are very religious, which is frequently reflected in their folk art and wall decorations. Deeply spiritual panels and iconic paintings – painted images of religious figures or events - can be viewed in museums and churches all over the country. |
Decorating eggs in the spring is usually associated with Easter, but the form of art practiced in the Ukraine existed way before Christianity conquered the country. Eggs were believed to have the power to heal, protect from evil and bring good fortune. It was the reason – and still is – that each home had to have a plate full of elaborately decorated Easter eggs or ‘pysanka’. Today, the dyed egg shells are generally replaced by stone, wooden or clay ones. There are, of course, other art forms that have put the Ukraine on the map. Some of the most sought after handmade jewelry includes exquisite beadwork and lacquered brooches. Gold and amber are frequently used in necklaces, chokers, rings, earrings and bracelets. Also in demand is traditionally designed pottery. The large deposits of clay found throughout Ukraine have definitely influenced the development of this art form and stimulated its growth. Ukrainian folk art and crafts are unique in style and will bring brightness and mystique to anyone who likes to enrich their life, office or home. |
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Pioneering Authors in the Ukrainian Literary Tradition Lesja Ukrajinka (1871-1913) was a pioneering female author whose poetry, prose and literary criticism continue to be revered today. Cultural pride, national honor and humanity’s desire for freedom are major themes her works. From her first collection of poetry, On the Wings of Songs, to her later plays, The Noblewoman and The Forest Song, Ukrajinka’s work continues to be celebrated today for her inclusion of Ukrainian culture, folklore and history. |
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Ukrainians are very hospitable and generous when it comes to feeding their guests and before you know it you will be eating a plate full of delicious baked or fried dumplings. Varenyky (Vareniki) and Perogi (Pyrohy, Pieroge) are dumplings often filled with potato, meat, cheese, sauerkraut, cabbage or seasonal fruits.
Druzenje sa Ukrajincima 2009 Manifestacije & FestivaliMaterijal prikupljen sa tromjesecnog boravka u Hrvatskoj, Srbiji i Bosni (28. April - 28. July 2009) Oksana Petrovic, Brisbane Australia
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