Olha Zhydetska

Make Your Own Motanka Doll!

Age notification notice: Parental Guidance

Description

Step into a centuries-old tradition and discover the art of Motanka in this 90-minute, hands-on workshop led by Olha Zhydetska.  

Dating back over 5,000 years, Motanka dolls are traditional yarn figures believed to embody women’s wisdom and serve as protective family amulets. Created through winding and knotting rather than sewing, each doll carries symbolic meaning through its colours, threads and patterns. In this workshop, you’ll learn traditional Motanka-making techniques while creating your own unique doll infused with personal intention.  

Join us for a mindful and creative exploration of this ancient folk craft. No prior experience is needed, just curiosity and a willingness to create.  

Please ensure you book a ticket for every member of your party. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

About the Workshop Leader

Olha Zhydetska

Olha Zhydetska

Olha Zhydetska is a Ukrainian artist and community organiser from Kyiv, now based in Haworth. A former TV journalist, Zhydetska turned to traditional Ukrainian painting following her displacement from Ukraine. In Keighley, Zhydetska founded Making Bridges, a community project bringing together Ukrainian craftswomen and artists to promote cultural exchange, connection and understanding through creativity, heritage and shared experiences.