Pysanky
Hi, I’m Andrea—also known as “the egg lady.” I’m a first-generation Ukrainian American artist who learned the art of pysanky from my mother when I was five years old. Today, I create and teach pysanky in my studio in Asheville, North Carolina.
What Are Pysanky?
Pysanky are a traditional Ukrainian art form created using a wax-resist process on real eggshells. Each line, color, and symbol carries meaning, reflecting themes of protection, strength, renewal, and connection to nature and spirit.
My Approach
My work encompasses both traditional Ukrainian patterns and my own modern interpretations. Each egg is created slowly and intentionally, honoring the history of the craft while allowing room for personal expression.
Sharing the Tradition
Teaching is an essential part of my practice. I offer workshops and live demonstrations for those who want to learn the pysanky process and understand its cultural significance. I also use my work to support humanitarian efforts, including fundraising initiatives for female soldiers on the frontlines in Ukraine.
The Process
Wax-resist dye method using a stylus called a kistka. Each egg is created slowly and intentionally — no shortcuts.
Support Ukrainan Women on the Front Lines
Studio A proudly supports the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America.
Student Testimonials
“Andrea is a gem and a national treasure — so fortunate to have someone who is so happily passionate and connected to her work and willing and happy to share it.”
“I’m so glad I took the class and look forward to making more eggs at home. I think Andrea is a wonderful teacher & artist.”
“The combination of gentle guidance with the freedom to explore our own designs. From the aspect of doing something I had never done, I felt that I was in a completely safe and supportive environment, and that I would succeed by just enjoying myself.”
“Instructor was great, very positive and helpful.”
“Wonderful class, would definitely recommend to others!”
AVAILABLE EGGS:
A few designs will be always available (except for shop vacation mode) and the rest will be made to order. Made to order will be 2-3 weeks.
Teaching resume:
I have been teaching pysanky myself for approximately fifteen years. I taught for several years in the Boston, MA area at various locations- businesses, churches, my home studio, assisted living facilities and art studios.
I’ve been teaching pysanky in Asheville, NC since I moved here in 2013. I hold private and group lessons in my studio in the River Arts District. I’ve also taught at the John C. Campbell Folk School, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at UNCA Asheville, Biltmore Estate, North Carolina Arboretum, Greenville Center for Creative Arts, Roots + Wings Preschool, Eastern Carolina University, UNC Chapel Hill, Kidzu Children’s Museum, Olive’s Porch, as well as schools, businesses, private homes, + summer camps. I’ve also done talks, demonstrations and events at Biltmore, the Grovewood Gallery, the NC Arboretum, the Asheville Greek Festival, the Asheville Easter Festival, with the Girl Scouts, and LEAF’s Easel Rider Mobile Art Truck. Three of my pysanky are in the Pysanka Museum in Kolomyya, Ukraine, and I’ve been mentioned in the Wall Street Journal, Time.com, and was featured on an episode of HG-TV House Hunters International.