Learn to make pysanky—Ukrainian Easter eggs

Ukrainian Easter eggs by artist Melissa Wargo-Geesen. [Photo Melissa Wargo-Geesen]

Church of the Saviour welcomes Melissa Wargo-Geesen as she teaches the art of making Ukrainian Easter eggs in a hands-on workshop on Saturday, March 16. 

A pysanka is a Ukrainian Easter egg decorated with traditional folk designs, which might include crosses, netting or animals. Traditionally, all symbols and color choices have meaning. This unique art form uses a hollowed-out egg which is decorated using a wax-resist (batik) method.

Two sessions are offered. The morning session runs 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and the afternoon session runs from 1:30–4:30 p.m. Registration is required, and each session is limited to 15 participants. Cost per session is $20. Register and pay online at www.chsaviour.org or in person at the church office.

Melissa Wargo-Geesen is a music therapist who grew up in the Cleveland area and learned the Ukrainian technique for decorating eggs from a neighbor when she was teenager. About 17 years ago, she started creating these eggs again and “couldn't put it down.” She describes it as "a hobby that has gone haywire." Since the mid-1990s, she has made close to 10,000 egg items, including eggshell jewelry. Her work has been featured in art shows and in local galleries.

Church of the Saviour is located at 2537 Lee Road, in Cleveland Heights, one block north of Fairmount Boulevard. The church is handicapped-accessible and offers free parking.