Story of Growing Gunya
History and process
What is a Gunya? What is the story behind the creation of these Garments?
Ruslana Goncharuk was born in Yavoriv, a village in western Ukraine, known for its weaving traditions, passed on from generation to generation. Ruslana learned this craft from her grandmother and mother in the early age. In the last years her practice has focused on researching native Ukrainian symbols, patterns and (weaving) techniques and applying them in traditional and contemporary garments that she creates. Ruslana closely collaborates with theaters, creating costumes for plays. (“Gutsulka Ksenya” for Ivano-Frankivsk Drama Theatre). In the past years she received several awards on preserving the ancient craft and Hutsul traditions.