In Wallingford, the delicate art of Ukrainian Easter egg decorating continues to thrive, even as war challenges the nation’s cultural roots. Gloria Paproski Horbaty, a second-generation Ukrainian known locally as the “Egg Lady,” dedicates her time to teaching and preserving the ancient craft of pysanky. Through lectures and demonstrations, she reveals the rich history behind these intricate eggs, offering a glimpse into a tradition that spans thousands of years.
Horbaty notes that the war with Russia has strengthened Ukrainians’ commitment to preserving their heritage. “Ukrainians are wearing their embroidery even more now than before,” she explains.
As the cultural director of the Ukrainian National Women's League of America Branch 108 in New Haven, she stays closely connected to her roots. Some of her family still lives in Lviv, a city in western Ukraine near Poland.
A Tradition With Deep Roots
Instagram | @embroideryartbynat | The 2,000-year-old pysanky tradition uses detailed egg designs and symbols to express Ukrainian history, faith, and hope.
Pysanky, Horbaty explains, is at least 2,000 years old and is steeped in folklore, myth, and symbolic power. Archeological evidence suggests some eggs date back to the era of the pyramids. According to legend, an evil beast chained to a cliff threatens the world if the tradition of making pysanky is neglected.
“If there are few eggs, the monster’s chains will loosen, and evil will flow throughout the world. When we make many eggs, the chains remain tight, allowing love to conquer evil,” Horbaty says.
With the adoption of Christianity in 988, the symbols on pysanky evolved from pagan meanings to reflect Christian themes. Sunflowers and wheat represent the warmth of the sun, flowers symbolize love and goodwill, and birds like chickens, storks, and roosters symbolize fertility and fulfillment.
Eggs adorned with evergreens are associated with eternal youth and health, often gifted to elders. Christian symbolism highlights resurrection and eternal life, reinforcing the belief that decorated eggs ensure goodness triumphs over evil.
The Craft of Making Pysanky
The process of creating pysanky is intricate and meditative. Horbaty learned the craft from her mother at the age of six, a tradition historically passed from mothers to daughters, though today sons are also learning.
The process starts with drawing designs in beeswax on raw, white eggs using a kistka, a fine-tipped writing tool. The eggs are then dipped in a series of dyes, from lightest to darkest, preserving each color under the wax. After drying, Horbaty coats the eggs in shellac and empties them by blowing out the yolk through a small hole.
Horbaty emphasizes the solemnity of the process: prayers accompany each step, and the act of decorating a pysanka is considered a spiritual ritual. These eggs are not eaten; they serve as symbolic objects meant to convey cultural and spiritual meaning.
Easter Traditions in Ukraine
Instagram | @h7gables | Ukrainians celebrate Easter with pysanky eggs and traditional foods to express hope, faith, and the arrival of new life.
Easter marks the release of the earth from winter and the arrival of new life. Pysanky symbolize this seasonal renewal. Families prepare traditional Easter foods like babka bread, place them in baskets, and bring them to church for blessings. Afterward, families enjoy the food together.
Religious observances include a ceremonial procession around the church. Upon entering, people declare, “Resurrection has happened.” Ukraine adapts Palm Sunday with pussy willows since palms do not grow locally.
Global Support and Cultural Preservation
The ongoing conflict has prompted foreign museums to protect Ukrainian collections by temporarily housing them outside the country. Despite these challenges, the practice of pysanky continues to flourish, serving as a symbol of resilience and cultural pride.
Horbaty notes the importance of continuing the tradition: “We’ll have to make lots of pysanka this year.” Through careful preservation and public education, the legacy of Ukrainian Easter eggs endures, connecting generations across continents and sustaining a heritage that transcends conflict.
Pysanky represents more than art. It reflects Ukraine’s history, faith, and cultural resilience. The meticulous craft, full of folklore and spiritual meaning, continues to inspire people worldwide.
Thanks to efforts by Gloria Paproski Horbaty, the “Egg Lady” of Wallingford, this ancient tradition endures. It ensures the lessons and beauty of Ukrainian culture survive for generations to come.