Petrykivka painting workshop

The Rotary Club of Haworth & Worth Valley is undertaking another mission to help provide humanitarian aid for war-torn Ukraine. This time we are providing support for Ukrainian refugee Olha Zhydetska in planning a series of 90-minute workshops into the floral patterns of traditional Ukrainian Petrykivka-style painting.

Full details of what Olha is offering together with registration details are listed below:-

The Workshop

• The workshop will be run by Olha Zhydetska who is an experienced artist for Petrykivka painting and will teach people who may never held a paintbrush before how to produce these wonderful paintings. You do not need to bring any materials with you as they are special to this form of painting and are provided by Olha.
• Join us at the workshop to unravel the history and secrets of this captivating artform. You’ll delve into the fascinating world of Petrykivka painting, gaining insight into its unique techniques and discovering the joy of bringing beauty to life on canvas.
• Following the workshop, you can leverage your newfound skills to paint greeting cards, embellish household items, or adorn pottery. Alternatively, you can simply revel in the creative atmosphere and join a noble endeavour to assist people affected by war.
• Come join us for an hour and a half of creativity and culture as we explore the beautiful art of Petrykivka painting. This traditional Ukrainian folk-art style features vibrant floral motifs and intricate designs that are sure to inspire your inner artist.
• During the workshop, you will learn the history of Petrykivka painting and receive hands-on guidance from Olha. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced painter, this workshop is perfect for anyone looking to try something new and unleash their creativity.
• Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Ukrainian art and create your very own masterpiece to take home.
• Sign up now to secure your spot.

The venue

St Gabriel’s Church, Main Street, Stanbury,  BD22 0HW

• Date –The first workshop will be held on the March 23rd, with the dates for subsequent workshops being announced when they are known.  
• Time:  10:00 – 12:00 Each session will last about 90 minutes and all materials will be provided for everyone to produce a real painting
• Workshop capacity – a minimum of six people and a maximum ten to 12 people. For more information about future workshops and possible waiting lists please email: Timholmes66@gmail.com
• Registration Each session requires a registration fee of £10/person. This provides a contribution towards the workshop running costs.
• Parking – Parking is limited in Main Street, so arrangements have been made to park in the Stanbury Village School Car Park on Main Street BD22 0HA. 
• Donations There will be the opportunity for individuals to make donations which will go to Ukraine for humanitarian aid via the Slovyansk Rotary Club in Ukraine. We chose Slovyansk as it is next to the frontline of the Russian-Ukrainian war.
• Gift aid (currently 25 per cent) can be added to donations.

Why should anyone learn to paint Petrykivka?

• Therapeutic benefits: Painting is incredibly relaxing and can help reduce stress levels. No artistic skills are needed to start!
• Unleashed creativity: Painting helps unleash your creativity and express yourself.
• Concentration & Perseverance: Creating a painting from start to finish takes time and dedication.
• Positive mental health: Creative pursuits like painting have massive potential to promote positive mental health.

Who is Olha Zhydetska?

Olha Zhydetska is a Ukrainian refugee who is living in Haworth with her mother and two small children. Her husband is still living in the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. Olha is skilled in Petrykivka painting – the painting soul of Ukraine- and has a desire to provide humanitarian aid through her ability to talk about Ukrainian culture and teach people to paint in this highly decorative style.

What is Petrykivka Painting?

• This artform originated in the18th century in Central Ukraine and used to decorate the walls of houses, furniture, and household items with floral patterns.
•  The artists used vegetable dyes, egg tempera and special brushes made of cat fur.
• Petrykivka painting was included in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2013.
•  Petrykivka painting has become a ‘brand’ in Ukrainian popular culture, and a “Petrykivka” trademark belonging to the artisans of Petrykivka village has been created.

The Petrykivka painting technique is wonderfully straightforward and falls within the realm of traditional one-stroke paintings, much like the Gypsy canal boat painting. Yet, Petrykivka boasts its own distinct characteristics and hidden gems. These elements lend themselves to delicately and vividly depicting both real garden scenes and fantastical flora, fruits, berries, and herbs. Traditional motifs of captivating birds and insects also grace the canvas, adding whimsy to the artwork.

What is special about Petrykivka painting workshop?

A notable aspect of Petrykivka art is the gradient stroke, which infuses images with remarkable depth and vibrancy. Additionally, the use of improvised tools such as scrapers, feathers, and unique cat brushes adds an intriguing dimension to the creative process, resulting in strokes that possess a distinctive character.

 Why not join us at the workshop to unravel the history and secrets of this captivating artform. You’ll be able to delve into the fascinating world of Petrykivka painting, gaining insight into its unique techniques and discovering the joy of bringing beauty to life on canvas.