Svitlana Holovchuk is a designer, founder of the Passarinho brand, artist, poet, cultural diplomat, mother of three daughters, military wife and volunteer. She was born and raised among the picturesque Carpathian Mountains, where her parents instilled in her a love of her native land, traditions and culture. She has published two poetry collections, 'Diary of the Soul' and 'Burnt Wings'. Svitlana has created several ethnic collections of natural stone jewellery, including ‘Heritage of Generations’ and ‘Heritage of the Nation’. These unique necklaces reflect the richness of Ukrainian traditions, while being versatile and stylish accessories that can become part of both everyday and festive wardrobes. The artist is also the winner of the Country Brand award in the ‘Chosen by the Country 2024’ competition and was awarded the Order of St Sophia, which underlines her significant contribution to the development of the Ukrainian cultural space. Her jewellery has become a hallmark of the Ukrainian style and is popular far beyond the country's borders. She is also a member of the creative team ‘Under the Wing of an Angel’, initiator, organiser and co-organiser of numerous exhibitions. For the sixth time, she has been a member of the jury of the international creative festival-competition held under the auspices of the TC. Svitlana also cooperates with various volunteer foundations, helping to create positive moments for those who need attention, recovery and beauty in difficult times for people and the country.
Embroidering my fate
I don't have the strength to embroider my fate...
The thread does not lie flat on the canvas...
Cross to cross does not lie smoothly...
And my patterns are sad for some reason.
I want to embroider sunny patterns,
But they are all grey, as if in winter.
I want to draw stars with thread,
But I paint with words, my thoughts are not easy.
I want a path in the forest and a bird in the sky,
I crave for the sun's rays and the heavenly sky,
And it turns out again - the thread is entangled.
‘The crosses are not equal... it's better not to try.
I want to pass on the ancient symbols,
To wish people happiness and good,
Instead of all this, sadness on the canvas
And heavy thoughts, because we are at war.
Not happy are the thoughts that filled my soul.
‘I've already cut my finger... blood on a white background...
‘It was a terrible trigger... I have already put the needle down.
I will embroider with peace in my heart.
© Author - Svitlana Holovchuk
© Translated into English by Maryna Tchianova
