St. Andrew's Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral in Silver Spring, Maryland, hosted the workshop.
This was reported by the event organizer St. Andrew Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral. St. Andrew Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral.
Led by craftswoman Iryna Rybytva, the master class was filled with warmth and creativity. Participants created unique textile dolls dressed in embroidered outfits, wreaths, and scarves — real works of art with a Ukrainian soul.
"These few hours were a real journey back to childhood, to a world of warm memories, manual labor, and Ukrainian traditions." Each doll was special, with its own soul, history, and character. I am extremely grateful for your sincerity, inspiration, and love for Ukrainian culture. Together, we did more than create; we preserved memories and supported the future," said craftswoman Iryna Rybytva, sharing her impressions.
For three hours, the guests had the opportunity to work with authentic materials and plunge into their own childhoods, remembering a time when toys were rare and each had its own story. Some dolls wore modern pixelated outfits, while others held books, Bibles, and symbols of family heritage.
"It was as if we picked up the phone and talked to our childhood. With those girls and boys from the '80s and '90s. When they had only a few toys, when their mothers or older sisters sewed pants or dresses for their dolls, and when someone in fourth grade brought Barbie and Ken from France and let their classmates take them home for a day because everyone wanted to play with them. One Barbie and one Ken for 90 fourth graders... We brought out memories that seemed hidden deep in our memories..." the organizers added.
Kate Sema, a guest at the workshop, spoke about Ukrainian regional embroidery, the symbolism of flowers in wreaths, and the significance of traditional headscarves.
Participants enjoyed Ukrainian dishes, as well as coffee and tea. A spirit of unity and creativity reigned, accompanied by Ukrainian songs.
Notably, all proceeds from ticket sales will fund educational projects in Ukraine.
Photo: St. Andrew Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral
Author: Inna Mikhno