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The Lace of Light: Ukrainian Vytynanka Between Tradition and Modernity
12 December 2025 - 4 January 2026
FreeEVENT DESCRIPTION
Wyndham Social, in collaboration with The Ukrainian Society of Hong Kong, proudly present The Lace of Light: Ukrainian Vytynanka Between Tradition and Modernity by Ukrainian artist Tetyana Kuzmych (Kashuba), where a fragile tradition with immense strength witnesses stories of courage, resilience and hope.
Vytynanka (вити́нанка), the Ukrainian art of intricate paper-cutting, traces its origins to the 15th-16th centuries, emerging as an accessible, affordable way practised by villagers, especially women, to bring beauty into rural homes. Initially serving as festive decorations for windows and walls, these symmetrical designs often featured motifs inspired by nature, mythology, and daily life, symbolising protection, prosperity, and harmony. Although paper-cutting first emerged in China many centuries ago, in Ukraine it blossomed into a unique visual language by the 19th century, becoming a cherished part of winter and Christmas traditions. Children often made their first cuts by creating simple paper snowflakes—a childhood exercise that, in fact, belongs to the same artistic lineage.
By the 19th century, vytynanka had transitioned from humble folk craft to an admired art form into both ornament and storytelling, reflecting the creativity and resourcefulness of Ukrainian communities and gaining attention from collectors and artists. Even during the Soviet era, when traditional art was shaped by political themes, vytynanka remained a quiet expression of cultural identity. In the 1960s, artisans created full interior decorations by cutting patterns from colored newspapers—early prototypes of decorative wallpapers. In present day, vytynanka is experiencing a revival as contemporary artists and designers incorporate it into modern art, fashion, and interior design. It is also taught in schools and workshops, ensuring the preservation of this cultural tradition.
In Tetyana Kuzmych’s hands, this fragile medium becomes a luminous declaration of identity, memory, and the enduring spirit of Ukraine. Tetyana Kuzmych is a leading Ukrainian artist specialising in Vytynanka. In 2025, she created the largest papercut artwork in Ukraine, a monumental 10 × 3 meter (28.7 m2) composition—now officially recognised by the National Register of Records of Ukraine. Her innovative cutting technique that imitates the rhythm and texture of traditional Ukrainian embroidery transforms paper into fabric that visually “weaves” light and shadow.
For this exhibition in Hong Kong, Tetyana is bringing her record-setting Vytynanka which incorporates Kyiv-region ornaments, traditional Christmas symbolism, and the Ukrainian coat of arms—motifs of dignity, resilience, protection, and cultural strength. Each intricate cut and pattern tells a story of hope and perseverance, serving as a reminder of the enduring human spirit even in the face of immense hardship. The dominant red colour, powerful and evocative, symbolises not only love and vitality but also solemn remembrance of those who have given their lives defending Ukraine.
In light of recent tragedies and conflicts, Tetyana’s work resonates with a universal message: that through art, we can find solace, strength, and connection. Her Vytynanka, with its interplay of light and shadow, reminds us that even in the darkest moments, light persists—bringing hope, fostering mutual understanding, and connecting communities across borders. This exhibition becomes more than a showcase of craftsmanship; it is a bridge between cultures, a space for shared reflection, and a testament to the power of human resilience.
