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Sample Pysanky Course Proposal

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Class title: “Beginner’s Pysanky” or “The Art of Batik Eggs”

Description, including concept, activities, skills you will transmit:

The basis of this ancient art known as Pysanky or Batik Eggs involves “writing” designs on an egg. Hot bees wax is applied with a stylus over a succession of aniline dyes. When the writing is complete the wax is removed, revealing an intricate pattern of color and symbolism. Students will be able to create heirloom pieces for any holiday.

Class Time: recommended 3 hours+

Objectives: Student will

  • Learn about Eastern European culture through research
  • Learn additive dye process using wax as resist - create one of their original designs on an egg
  • Create traditional and original egg designs - showing understanding of Ukrainian symbolism
  • Demonstrate awareness of color planning and craftsmanship in dye process

Age range–check one: Please note, this art requires the use of a candle flame. Please don't allow children to practice this art without adult supervision.

___ Adults

___ Adults–plus teens by permission

___ Teens/what age range? ______

___ Children/what age range? ______

Skill level–check all that apply:

___ Beginning ___ Intermediate ___ Advanced ___ All Levels Welcome

Prerequisite (if any):

Class size maximum: recommended 5-12 (for a first time teacher)

Class Fee: teacher discretion based on supplies cost, teacher prep time, or policy of the venue

Instruction/Motivation:

  1. Present an introduction to Eastern European culture, and the passing down of traditional design (you can use a dvd, youtube, etc.)
  2. Show actual examples of professional pysanky eggs - your own examples when possible
  3. Demonstrate division of the egg, traditional patterns-the “1/2” principle-importance of measuring, using a tape measure, graph paper, rubber bands, or lathe.
  4. Explain and demonstrate additive dye process - working from light colors- to dark. Do a sample right along with the students, using practice design sheets in pencil then a first try with the kistka.
  5. Demonstrate safe use dye and candles
  6. Draining the egg and varnishing the egg.

Materials you will supply, with approximate cost see attachment:

“WHAT YOUR INITIAL INVESTMENT MAY COST for First Class of 12 Students”

Optional Supplies per Student You Need to Provide:

BEGINNERS KIT-that includes a traditional wooden or delrin kistka-medium

Dyes: Minimum of 3-5 dyes

Sheet of basic patterns

A packet of symbolism, designs, history and legends

A laminated sheet of traditional patterns

Flexible vinyl tape measure

Materials you can ask students to supply:

Roll of paper towels

Candle stub(no bigger than 6”) and Candle holder (no tea lights)

1 empty egg carton, for transporting completed pysanky home

Re$ource$ for purchasing additional dyes, wax, books, kistkas, and display holders, etc., if you chose to sell supplies.

Schedule preference:

  • Most Pysanky teachers begin teaching in the Spring, Lenten period before Easter,Organizations, Churches, or Summer Craft Programs
  • And are there times or dates that would not work? (e.g. any weekday evenings except Tuesdays):

Class Preparation: Pre-measure one half side of egg per student into a traditional “Star” pattern that the student can elaborate upon.

If you will need paid time outside the classroom (to prepare materials, process student work), how much of that time will you need?

Anything else you would like the facility to know:

Attach a resume or provide information about previous art and/or teaching experience.

Attach your bio.

Attach Images: If you do not have a website or blog with images of your work, attach images of your work.