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Ukrainians Observe Orthodox Easter
Featured in Toronto Star: APRIL 17, 2022
https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/these-easter-eggs-have-a-story-to-tell-six-pysanky-artists-write-a-message-of/article_6af2a96b-d5e0-555d-86a7-aae0580c5b44.html
These Easter eggs have a story to tell.Six pysanky artists write a message of hope to Ukraine.
Toronto Star: April 17, 2022
Article by Ghada Alsharif
Photo Richard Lautens
Halia Palaszczuk: ‘Glory to Ukraine’
Halia Palaszczuk’s pysanka is written on an ostrich egg, dubbed “Glory to Ukraine.” The designs are traditional, dating back centuries and are written for love, hope, protection and prosperity in Ukraine.
The tree of life is depicted in the centre as stems of wheat, symbolizing bountiful harvest. “Ukraine is the wheat basket of the world,” Palaszczuk said.
Around the wheat are meandering white triangles, known as wolf’s teeth, symbolizing fierce protection of the land. The wreath around the centre represents a talisman for blooming nature and wealth. Diamonds signify protection from all corners of the Earth. The cross holds two meanings: intersecting lines represent the sun or victory over darkness, as well as a cross of suffering and resurrection.
The poppy is a symbol to remember those who died in military service. The sieve, or netting, signifies the division of good and evil.
Palaszczuk, who lives in Brampton, learned to write pysanky at the age of three. The art has become her passion and she currently teaches pysanky workshops. A closeup view of Halia Palaszczuk's pysanka.