Diana Yeliseieva Ukrainian Samchykivka art workshop FIRST SESSION

About

Following a hugely successful January workshop, Diana returns to Lewes after what participants described as a truly inspiring and wonderful experience. Attendees praised her warmth, knowledge and authenticity, highlighting the depth and cultural richness she brought to this traditional Ukrainian art form. She had a lovely manner and presence, wrote one participant, while another described her as an inspiring teacher who made the session feel really special to attend. Many guests were so enthused that they have continued experimenting with the style at home, with one art teacher even introducing Samchykivka into her own classroom. The most common feedback? Simply that the workshop was not long enough and that participants wanted to carry on. We are delighted to welcome Diana back to build on this enthusiasm and offer another opportunity to explore this vibrant and meaningful tradition. We have also made the session significantly longer.Discover one of Ukraines most radiant and uplifting artistic heritages in this hands-on workshop dedicated to Samchykivka a joyful folk-art style celebrated for its bold colours, symbolic motifs and protective, talismanic designs.Your guide is Diana Yeliseieva, a mother of four who has been living in the UK since the beginning of the war and who recently returned from Samchyky, the village where Samchykivka was born, to deepen her learning with a master of the tradition. Samchykivka emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the Khmelnytskyi region as a form of house decoration. Villagers painted vibrant, symmetrical compositions of flowers, birds and mythic symbols directly onto their homes to invite protection, harmony and good fortune. Though nearly lost during the upheavals of the mid-20th century, the art was revived in the 1970s by dedicated local artists who preserved its techniques, colour palette and symbolic language. Today it is recognised on Ukraines National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage and cherished for its connection to nature, resilience and hope.In this workshop, Diana introduces the history and cultural meaning behind the motifs, explains the symbolism woven into each pattern, and guides you step-by-step in creating your own traditional Samchykivka artwork. For Diana, this folk tradition has been a daily source of strength and connection to home a warmth and dedication she shares generously with every participant.No experience is required only curiosity, creativity and a willingness to explore a beautiful piece of Ukrainian culture.All materials are provided.