The Embroidery Festival in Lutsk - May 8

[matera]

You'll have a chance to see the longest in Ukraine hand embroidered towel (rushnyk) as well as the handwork of the embroidery craftsmen from all over Ukraine if you come to Lutsk, Volyn Region on May 8.

The second Ukrainian Festival of Hand Embroidered Towels is organized by the "Idea” Art Show and Luts'k city council. The idea of the project belongs to Vitali Ivanyts’ky, the Honored Artist of Ukraine.



Vyshyvka (embroidery) is still present in Ukrainian culture, clothes and house decoration although it's an ancient craft dating back to the pre-Christian times. Rushnyk (towel) is one of the most popular embroidered items. Having a symbolic and ritual meaning, it is believed to protect people and houses against evil.

Rushnyk is still used in engagement, wedding and christening ceremonies. It is a precious family heirloom passed from one generation to another. Rushnyks are used to decorate icons and family portraits, the sacred objects of most Ukrainian houses

The craftsmen from all over Ukraine are invited to participate in Lutsk festival and show their craftsmanship. The goal is to promote one of the most ancient crafts in Ukraine, share the experience and gather money for handicapped embroideresses holding an auction of embroidered items. The longest Rushnyk in Ukraine will be registered by the representatives of Ukrainian Book of Records.

The citizens of downtown are going to decorate the windows of the houses to turn the city into a unique work of art.