Lyrissa Sheptak

What is your favourite medium as an artist?

I can’t pick just one but I love both writing pysanky and the written word for different reasons. Both, however, are creative outlets.

Why does that medium inspire you?

Both of the art forms I do inspire me to become better. When I write pysanky, it gets addicting because I see my mistakes after the fact and I plan out how I would do the pattern differently next time. When I take my time, I am pleased to turn out something that others hopefully consider to be beautiful.

As for writing, it is a creative outlet. Although I am known mostly for my non-fiction, writing fiction feels like freedom. Fiction has no boundaries. I hope my work draws peoples’ attention and is a form of escapism, even when contemplating my pysanky designs.

How does the medium help tell stories about Ukrainian history and culture?

Pysanky designs and colours hold great symbolism culturally and religiously. By choosing colours and designs carefully, the artist can get a message or story across. Telling stories through writing is easy. Whether fiction or non-fiction, the story or article options are endless and perfect opportunities to showcase the culture or share individual stories and experiences.

What do you want the people who consume your art to understand about what you’re trying to say?

As for pysanky I’d like people to see pride of culture and love of religion. When it comes to my writing, I hope, through my written voice, can give a voice to those not represented in the past, or tell an engaging story. As well, I hope to give glory to God because I write a lot of Catholic material.

What does ACUA mean to you?

I will always be thankful for ACUA. They kick-started my writing career by needing a writer last minute and hearing I did the odd thing. My writing career was spring boarded after that first job. Then they heard I write pysanky…and all of a sudden, I was all in. ACUA believed in my art before I truly did. They do wonderful things for artists. And they enjoy helping and watching the artists grow.

Why is ACUA important in our community?

ACUA has a deep love affair with Ukrainian culture and art. They are constantly showcasing Ukrainian Albertan artists. It draws people in. But they are also very relevant in the greater Albertan community. They build community in their province, and they always do their best to aid in the success of their artists.

How can people who support ACUA artists help us tell our stories?

Share. The more people share, the more we understand each other. It snowballs from there. We create a better community by caring for each other, being kind, and forgiving. As well, sharing fosters inspiration for the artists. ACUA supporters keep inspiration and the artist’s ability to keep doing their art, alive. Artists and supporters need and value each other.