Codes and Symbolism in Ukrainian Embroidery & Symbolism in Rushnyky

1. Introduction from ACUA Board Member Slavka Shulakewych
2. Codes & Symbolism in Ukrainian Embroidery: Revival of the Symbolism & Awareness of its Importance as a “Generic Book” & Amulet of Ukrainians 00:01:27
3. Symbolism in Rushnyky 00:39:00
Lectures in English & Ukrainian
Threads that Connect Lecture Series
Presented by Alberta Council for the Ukrainian Arts and Ukrainian Resource and Development Centre at MacEwan University
Codes & Symbolism in Ukrainian Embroidery: Revival of the Symbolism & Awareness of its Importance as a “Generic Book” & Amulet of Ukrainians
Our ancestors used embroidery as a charm, capable of bringing the human body in harmony with cosmic energies. Embroidered towels and shirts were a kind of energy armor for humans, uniting us with the ancestral energy code. When passing on family treasures, our grandparents passed on their blessings with them. The return of Ukrainians to embroidered clothing and to the traditions of their predecessors must be conscious and responsible, because the “language” of embroidery can be healing, protecting, and cherishing.
Presenter: Maria Chumarna from Lviv, Ukraine, author of over 80 books including Folk Art and Coding of Ukrainian Symbolism.
Symbolism in Rushnyky
This talk discusses the ancient symbolism incorporated in Ukrainian rushnyky (ritual towels), focused on the Central Dnipro Region of Cherkasy, which has formed the foundation for creating the contemporary rushnyk.
Presenter: Oleksandra Telizhenko, Member of the National Masters of Ukraine 1979, from Cherkasy, Ukraine.
Recorded May 15, 2021.