Olga Dame (Cornelius) is a traditional Ukrainian embroiderer originally from Kyiv (Ukraine). Dame embroiders in a variety of traditional techniques, researches embroidery of different regions of Ukraine, and gives workshops and presentations on the tradition.
Bio
Growing up in a family where every woman embroidered, Dame was fascinated by this art form since she was a child. She began embroidering at the early age of 5, learning different techniques from her mother, grandmother, and aunts.
Dame explains that in traditional Ukrainian culture embroidery has a special, even spiritual meaning. Embroidered cloth (rushnyk) is an indispensable element of events throughout life: a baby is received into a rushnyk, a coffin is lowered into the grave with a rushnyk, and everything in between – holidays, weddings, celebrations – also involves a rushnyk. As embroidered objects are traditionally believed to grant protection, women would embroider rushnyks for their loved ones – husbands, boyfriends, and sons – when they went to war. This tradition continues even in contemporary Ukraine, with people embroidering shirts and cloths for those who are fighting in the army or otherwise need protection.
Dame has carried her love for embroidery throughout her life, and she continues to embroider, research Ukrainian culture, and teach the tradition to children and adults in Oregon.
