Woven Ukrainian Rushnyk Workshop

The traditional handwoven linen rushnyk plays a very important role in the life of a Ukrainian person.  And last fall I had the opportunity to learn a bit about this special artform from  Elizabeth Holinaty at a weaving workshop held here in Calgary. The event was one in a series of events sponsored by the Alberta Council for the Ukrainian Arts.  It was such an amazing course, and it was hard for Elizabeth to remove me from the loom!




 Last year's project involved weaving a small fabric sample to place into the window of a small greeting card.  Such a novel and beautiful idea!  And I had the great opportunity to make two!!  The students all came into the class to find a loom pre-strung for our use.  Elizabeth prepared a lovely weaving pattern, and all we had to do was choose  the colors for the project.  Lots of concentrating, but a totally fulfiilling process - very mesmerizing and addictive!
So when I heard she is coming back to Calgary for another workshop this weekend it made me so excited!!  This year's project will involve learning how to weave a small rushnyk of 8inches by 15 inches using white mercerized cotton.  The promotional material says you can choose to weave an all white patterned rushnyk or one with colored bands.  All levels of weavers are welome.

The course runs Saturday, October 20, 2012 in two sessions, from 9-12 and from 1:30-4:30.  It will be held in the Golden Agers' Room at St. Vladimirs' Ukrainian Orthodox Church on 404 Merdith Road NE.  You can call 1-855-488-8558 to register and pay by Visa or Mastercard. 

The Alberta Council for the Ukrainian Arts is hosting a wide variety of craft workshops this fall. Please visit www.acuarts.ca for more information, or email info@acuarts.ca.

Information about Elizabeth -
http://www.acuarts.ca/pdf/holinaty.pdf



amk2012