COUDERSPORT — Olga Snyder, owner and operator of Olga Gallery and Yarn at Olga’s, 8 E. Second St., will conduct a series of Pysanky (Ukrainian egg) Decorating Workshops at noon each of the next three Fridays and Saturdays, March 22 and 23, March 29 and 30, and April 5 and 6.
These workshops will be four hours long and participants are asked to make a $60 donation, which will go to Snyder’s Saving Ukraine Fund, directly supporting Ukrainians living in the war-ravaged country and Ukrainians who have been displaced due to the two-year-old war. Snyder can also conduct workshops for two or more people by appointment if these times aren’t convenient.
“While we’re dealing with the unthinkable reality of the current world I’m trying to bring people together to heal and spread the message of love, peace and hope,” Snyder said.
More so than ever before in her life, Snyder said she has reflected on and embraced a Ukrainian legend that says making Pysanky is not merely decorating eggs, but writing a message to God and the universe. As long as Pysanky are created, the legend says that evil will not take over the world; life, hope and peace will prevail.
The $60 donation covers all materials for the workshop. If participants create more than one egg, Snyder said she would appreciate one being left in her care for her upcoming Hope is an Egg exhibition. Local artist Eppie Bailey is assisting Snyder with the workshops and co-creating the upcoming exhibition.
Anyone interested can call or text (814) 203-8405, email jsnyder@eggdecorator.com or contact Snyder on the Olga Gallery, Café & Bistro Facebook page. Monetary, Ukrainian egg, or artwork donations to the Saving Ukraine Fund can be mailed to Olga Gallery, 4 E. Second St., Coudersport, PA 16915.
