Ukrainian Folk Art
Ukrainian Folk Painting with Soul and Symbolism
Step into the world of Petrykivka painting — a vibrant Ukrainian folk art tradition where each brushstroke carries beauty, meaning, and ancestral memory. Guided by Liudmyla Makey, a skilled artist and cultural ambassador.
Inscribed in 2013 (8.COM) on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
✨ What Makes Petrykivka Unique?
The people of the village of Petrykivka decorate their living quarters, household belongings, and musical instruments with an ornamental style characterized by fantastic flowers and natural elements.
Local people, particularly women of all ages, are involved in this folk art tradition. Every family has at least one practitioner, making decorative painting an integral part of daily existence.
Ukranian majstrynia (artists) teach the fundamentals, passing down the symbolism of the elements from one generation to another.
🎨 What to Expect in the Class
Learn traditional motifs
Flowers, birds, leaves, and viburnum (kalyna) berries, each with symbolic meaning.
Work with quality materials
Richly pigmented paints and natural paper suitable for folk decorative art.
Use unique tools
Try the traditional cat-hair brush for delicate flowing strokes, and create berries using your own fingertip.
Expert Guidance
Taught by Liudmyla Makey and Anna Congedo, combining artistic skill with a warm teaching style.
🌍 Who Attends?
Our Petrykivka workshops attract international participants from all backgrounds — artists, travelers, curious beginners, and cultural explorers. No prior art experience is needed. Whether you're Ukrainian or new to the culture, this is a beautiful way to connect to stories, symbols, and self-expression.
What our guests think
“Недільний курс із петриківського розпису. Пару годин праці - і розквітли чудернацькі бузкові іриси. Це не просто хобі, а й популяризація української культури для іноземців.”
“Я не просто малюю, раз за разом долаючи страхи, що щось не вийде. Я навчаюся і розвиваюся. Тож ми зберігаємо і популяризуємо українські культуру на Балканах.”
“It has been a very creative weekend - filled with Ukrainian painting and punch needling. Wonderful atmosphere and inspiring guidance.”
The Language of Symbols & Tools
Finger painting
In Petrykivka art, one of the most important tools is the artist’s own finger. Using a fingertip, artists create delicate elements like the iconic viburnum clusters (kalyna). A true Petrykivka kalyna is said to be authentic only when it bears the fingerprint of the artist — carrying the warmth and intention of its creator.
The Cat-Hair Brush
A handmade instrument known for its precision and softness. Crafted using naturally shed cat hair, it allows artists to create Petrykivka’s signature "kryvulka" stroke — a delicate, comma-like mark. It brings to life the graceful rhythm and emotional richness of this centuries-old art form.
View Brush Details