About the Project

The first-ever recorded appearance of Motanka dolls on the territory of modern-day Ukraine was approximately 5,000 years ago. Motanka is a deeply sacred symbol of welfare, well-being, and hope for a better future. And it does not matter whether the doll was created quickly for fun for the child, or as an important amulet or a gift for the holiday. The doll’s face is always left blank and is usually covered with an embroidered cross, which is an ancient Ukrainian symbol of the Sun. According to a historic Ukrainian belief, if a doll had pronounced facial features, it would permanently attach itself to the soul of its owner, which could lead to undesirable consequences. A Motanka is always elegantly dressed in traditional garments and gently decorated with miniature sacred elements. Since the ancient times, it served as a talisman of protection to each Ukrainian family, was a symbol of femininity and wisdom. According to legend, a Motanka preserved family comfort, prosperity and protected from evil forces. It is believed that the doll is an intermediary between the living and those who do not yet exist in this world. Therefore, it has always been a coveted wedding gift for newlywed families. Because of its feminine nature (there have never been Motanka dolls made of men) it was also a symbol of fertility and rejuvenation. Young families kept their Motanka on prominent display in the dining room of their homes in hope that it would bring them children. If a child was gifted a Motanka doll, it was believed to keep illness away from them. When a child reached adulthood, their Motanka would be burned in a bonfire, hence burning the troubles of the past together with it. The creation process was extremely intricate and specific. The master craftswomen conveyed their mood, thoughts and energy into the doll. Motankas were always made in one sitting, so as not to interrupt the creative process. The layers of cloth rolled atop of each other, and then secured with ornamental threads, could only be rolled “in the direction of the sun.” i.e. - from the East towards the West. The garment of each Motanka also had to follow certain rules: its skirt symbolizes the earth, the shirt - denotes three times: past, present and future; mandatory attributes are embroidery and necklace, which represent abundance. The headdress - the eyes, ribbon or handkerchief - symbolizes the connection with the sky.