Vyshivanka Day

Vyshivanka Day is a holiday that unites Ukrainians all over the world. On this occasion, on May 15, a bright cultural and educational event was held by the ONMedU library and the Department of Social Sciences, dedicated to Ukrainian embroidery as a symbol of national dignity and historical continuity.

The ONMedU library was visited by freshmen of the pharmaceutical and dental faculties. Natalia Viktorivna Garina, director of the library, addressed the audience with a sincere welcome speech. She emphasized that vyshivanka is not just an element of clothing, but a special code of the nation, which forms a sense of unity and belonging to a deep and rich culture.

A meaningful report with a presentation on the development of Ukrainian vyshivanka and its significance in the modern world was presented by Iryna Grabarchuk, head of the library department. She spoke about the role of libraries in preserving and popularizing intangible cultural heritage, in particular through thematic exhibitions, meetings, literature reviews, and ethnographic projects.

A key part of the event was the report by Tetyana Podkupko, Candidate of Historical Sciences, Associate Professor of Odessa National Medical University, who revealed the topic “EVyshivanka as a Socio-Cultural Phenomenon: Between Amulet and Fashion.” In her speech, she traced how Ukrainian vyshivanka has gone from a sacred element of ceremonial clothing to a powerful symbol of identity in the 21st century, combining traditional elements and modern trends.

The event was accompanied by an exhibition of thematic literature, demonstrating the wealth of regional ornaments, styles, and techniques. The atmosphere was complemented by Ukrainian songs, sincere emotions of the participants, and the symbolic unity of generations – through threads, colors, and patterns that are sewn into the Ukrainian soul.

Vyshyvanka Day once again reminded us that Ukrainian culture is alive, strong and deep. And the library is not only a repository of knowledge, but also a space where this knowledge comes to life in the hearts of people.

Tetiana Podkupko,
Candidate of Historical Sciences, Associate Professor of the Department of Social Sciences
of Odessa National Medical University