Petrykivka painting - bright floral patterns

intangibleUNESCO World Heritage⭐ 4.9 (847 reviews)

Petrykivka Folk Painting

Fantastic floral symbolism of Ukrainian decorative art

📍 Petrykivka, Petrykivka•🏛️ 18 століття

About This Site

Petrykivka painting is a traditional Ukrainian decorative art from the village of Petrykivka, inscribed on UNESCO's list in 2013. It is characterized by fantastic floral patterns and natural elements.

Petrykivka decorative painting is a unique form of Ukrainian decorative art originating from the village of Petrykivka in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. This vibrant and distinctive phenomenon of folk ornamental art is characterized by fantastic floral compositions and other natural elements based on careful observation of local flora and fauna. The people of Petrykivka village decorate their living quarters, household belongings, and musical instruments with a style of ornamental painting that is rich in symbolism. The rooster stands for fire and spiritual awakening, while birds represent light, harmony, and happiness. In folk belief, these paintings protect people from sorrow and evil. Local people, particularly women of all ages, are involved in this folk art tradition. Every family has at least one practitioner, making decorative painting an integral part of daily existence in the community. The painting traditions, including the symbolism of ornamental elements, are transferred, renewed, and enhanced from one generation to another. Petrykivka painting uses natural dyes and is characterized by bright colors - red, green, yellow, and blue. Main motifs include flowers (dahlias, asters, mallows), viburnum berries, grapes, leaves, and birds.

Historical Significance

Petrykivka painting originated in the 18th century in the village of Petrykivka, founded by Zaporozhian Cossacks after the liquidation of the Zaporozhian Sich in 1775. In 1772, the village received the status of a sloboda of the Novomyrhorod fortress. The painting tradition developed as folk art, passed down through generations via family workshops. In the 19th century, Petrykivka painting gained wide recognition, with masters beginning to sell their works at fairs. In the early 20th century, the art attracted the attention of ethnographers and art historians. In 1936, an artel 'Decorative Painting' was opened in the village, which later transformed into experimental workshops. After World War II, in 1960, the Center for Folk Art 'Petrykivka' was created, uniting more than 40 masters. In 2013, Petrykivka decorative painting was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Petrykivka painting is an important part of Ukrainian cultural identity and national heritage. It represents a unique artistic style that combines ancient pagan traditions with Christian symbolism. The art reflects the worldview of the Ukrainian people, their connection to nature, and deep understanding of harmony. The inclusion of Petrykivka painting on the UNESCO list emphasizes its global cultural significance and the need to preserve this unique tradition. Local schools at all levels, from pre-school to college, teach the fundamentals of Petrykivka decorative painting, ensuring the transmission of knowledge to younger generations. The tradition contributes to the renewal of historical and spiritual memory and defines the identity of the entire community.