City University Malaysia, in partnership with the Embassy of Ukraine in Malaysia, hosted a “Creative Pysanka Art from Ukraine” workshop on 25-26 March 2024. This two-day event in cultural diplomacy involved over 60 participants, including diplomatic officials, educators, staff, students, and the general public. Attendees had the opportunity to learn the fundamental techniques of Petrykivka and Pysanka arts from Ukrainian artist Mr. Arthur Tselishchev.
The workshop was a testament to the collaboration between the Embassy of Ukraine in Malaysia and City University Malaysia, acknowledging the university’s significant role in supporting Ukrainian students. Scholarships provided by City University Malaysia aim to ensure that Ukrainian students, displaced by the ongoing war and occupation of their homeland, can pursue their studies.
Pysanka and Petrykivka are artistic traditions deeply ingrained in Ukrainian culture, carrying historical and spiritual significance. Pysanka, intricately decorated Ukrainian Easter eggs, traditionally symbolise the return of sunshine after the winter months. Petrykivka, a decorative painting style originating from Ukraine, was recognized by UNESCO in 2013 as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In the current context of war, these art forms take on new meanings as symbols of peace, hope, and the preservation of Ukrainian identity during challenging times.
Arthur highlighted the significance of this recognition, stating, “The acknowledgement from one of the world’s most respected organisations is monumental for Ukrainian people. It allows more people worldwide to learn and engage with Ukrainian culture firsthand.”
“Cultural diplomacy serves as a vital tool for Ukraine, particularly amidst ongoing war and information warfare. It facilitates awareness, maintains focus, enhances the national image, and contributes to cultural and economic development. We believe that the best way to share your culture and values with any foreigner is to engage them through the maximum of their feelings: sound, sight, visual, taste, touch and so on. In Malaysia, the Embassy has been organising various events such as screenings of Ukrainian films, exhibitions and even concerts, but this event was the first in terms of tactile perception approach. We truly believe that all participants could dive deeper into Ukrainian culture through it and would be interested to learn more about Ukraine,” explained. Denys Mykhailiuk, Chargé d’affaires a.i., Embassy of Ukraine in Malaysia.
Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Khairun Nisa Mustaffa Halabi, Dean of the Faculty of Creative Industries at City University Malaysia, underscored the workshop’s importance, particularly for students. “This workshop goes beyond learning new techniques; it fosters cultural understanding and provides a platform for self-expression and reflection,” she said. Through initiatives like this workshop, City University Malaysia affirms the role of art in promoting messages of peace and humanity globally.
For more information about City University Malaysia and its programs, please visit our website, City University Malaysia.
