PysankyByBasia
Yardley, PA
Website

I am a pharmacist by profession, but my soul is fed by writing Pysanky. This is a tradition I learned growing up in a Ukrainian Lemko family, where Pysanky were written each year at Easter. Once my two wonderful sons were grown, and on their own, pysankarstvo blossomed to a year-round passion for me. Learning how to make Pysanka Jewelry several years ago has taken me to another level. I also love to teach workshops, as I feel an obligation to share and preserve this age-old tradition. In December 2020, I was juried by the PA Guild of Craftsmen and granted Master Artisan status. I live in Yardley, PA, with my husband, Emil. We love to travel and enjoy family and friends, food, and wine.

Pysanky are created using a wax-resist batik method. The pattern elements are applied thru a series of layers of melted wax and dyes. The wax is melted off at the end, revealing the colors the final patterns. Eggshell Jewelry is created by cutting and shaping the decorated shell and then preserving it with an eco-safe epoxy resin. I create on various eggshells, including ostrich, emu, rhea, goose, swan, and many others. The final works are best appreciated in person when you can see and touch them.