"Broken Trust" by Natalia H

Made in Ukraine

This beautifully etched and carved goose egg pysanka is a masterful display of traditional Ukrainian geometric patterns, featuring multiple rhombuses intricately woven into the design. Each rhombus, with its precise lines and shapes, holds profound symbolic meaning. Representing fertility, growth, and the cycles of life, the rhombus is a powerful motif often used to convey protection, abundance, and balance.

The repetition of these rhombuses throughout the piece reflects the idea of the interconnectedness of all things, as well as the intersection of the four directions—earth and sky, past and future. This ancient symbol is a reminder of the cycles that govern nature and the ongoing flow of life. The complex patterning, with multiple rhombuses nested together, creates a harmonious sense of structure, evoking both stability and movement.

The meticulous etching and carving bring this design to life, with every detail carefully crafted to highlight the deep meaning behind these traditional symbols. This pysanka is a powerful testament to Ukrainian heritage, where the delicate interplay of geometric shapes and cultural symbolism creates a piece of art that is as rich in meaning as it is in beauty.

Bio

Natalia’s journey as an artist reflects the resilience, grace, and deep cultural devotion of a lifetime. Born in Lviv and a lifelong resident of Kyiv, she has led a life shaped by both intellect and artistry. Holding a degree in molecular physics from Kyiv State University, Natalia’s early years were marked by a passion for knowledge and the outdoors, including mountaineering and tourism, where she achieved notable sporting accomplishments. However, it was in the delicate craft of pysanky that she found her true expression.

Natalia began creating pysanky while at home caring for her children. What started as a means to help support her family blossomed into a deeply personal and fulfilling artistic journey. Over the years, her skill in the craft grew, and upon retiring, she returned to her art, using it to reconnect with her cultural roots and heritage.

Now well into her retirement, Natalia continues to create these extraordinary pieces with the same passion and dedication that has marked her life. In 2022, as the war in Ukraine intensified, she and her family were forced to relocate, but even in the face of adversity, Natalia’s spirit remained unshaken. Her art became a way to contribute to her country’s resilience, as she continued to support efforts at home and abroad, offering her intricate pysanky as a symbol of her love for her people.

Today, Natalia’s pysanky are far more than just works of art; they are symbols of endurance, devotion, and the strength of a nation. The precise craftsmanship in each piece reflects not only her remarkable skill but also the enduring spirit of Ukraine. With each stroke of her tools, Natalia continues to weave a legacy of beauty, strength, and resilience—a testament to a lifetime of passion, devotion, and love for her country and culture. 

One of Natalia's sons is presently fighting in eastern Ukraine, while her daughter and other son are integral to the volunteer effort in Ukraine, delivering much-needed aid across the country.

Technique

Creating an etched and carved egg with a complex design can be a highly time-consuming process, even for a skilled artist. The time required can vary depending on the intricacy of the design, the size of the egg, and the technique used. However, for a highly detailed and complex piece:

• Preparation: The artist must first prepare the egg by carefully cleaning and stabilizing it, which can take a few hours.
• Etching and Carving: The process of etching and carving involves carefully scratching and chiseling away the surface to create intricate patterns. This is usually the most time-intensive part. For a highly detailed design, it can take anywhere from 10 to 20 hours or more, sometimes spread out over several days, depending on the level of complexity and the size of the egg.
• Finishing Touches: After the main design is completed, the artist may spend additional time refining the details, adding shading, and ensuring the carving is smooth and precise, which could add a few more hours.

Overall, for a highly intricate and complex etched and carved pysanka, it could take anywhere from 20 to 40+ hours to complete, and sometimes longer if the design is particularly elaborate.

All pysanky sales are final!

Type: Goose egg shell; fully emptied and thermally processed. Hand etched and carved

Delivery: All pysanky purchases are to be collected in person at Southcentre Mall prior to 6:00 PM on Sunday, April 27. All pysanky purchased but not collected will be shipped at the purchaser's cost using standard shipping rates. Purchasers will be responsible for taxes, duties, and all other shipping-related costs. Purchasers outside Alberta will be contacted with delivery instructions after their purchase is confirmed.