Over the Moon: Ukrainian Folk Art
A celebration of culture, connection, and creativity
We’re delighted to announce that Story Preservation’s Over the Moon Pop-Up Art Gallery has launched a new exhibit inspired by the Art of Ukraine, titled Folk Animals in Bloom (click to view).
The art was created by homeschool students from the towns of Concord, Salisbury, Loudon, Penacook, Deerfield, and Goffstown, ages 4-9. Under the guidance of artist and educator Laura Himes, the students learned about the vibrant tradition of Petrykivka folk art—a cherished Ukrainian style known for its joyful spirit, floral motifs, and expressive brushwork.
Luke, age 7
This project went far beyond art instruction. In ways appropriate for the youngest among us, the students were introduced to traditional Ukrainian folk art not just as a visual form, but as a cultural language—one shaped by history, ritual, and a deep sense of place. They explored patterns, color symbolism, and decorative techniques that have been passed down through generations, learning how these forms connect to seasonal cycles, family traditions, and expressions of identity.
Then, they made it their own. Using a variety of media, students created artwork that was both rooted in tradition and uniquely personal. Some mirrored the symmetry and intricacy of traditional designs. Others played with shape and color to convey emotion and story. Each piece reflects an engagement not only with visual expression, but with culture, curiosity, and care.
Laura Himes shares her reflections on the experience:
“This wasn’t just an art lesson. It was about understanding where these designs come from—and why they matter. The students were fascinated by how something as simple as a color or shape could carry meaning across generations and continents. They really dove in.”
As we look at their work, we’re reminded that creativity flourishes when it’s connected to something deeper. These young artists are not only developing their skills—they’re expanding their awareness of the world.
Being featured in Over the Moon gives students a deep sense of pride—not only in their own work, but in knowing their creativity is celebrated by families, teachers, and communities alike. We’ll continue to invite students from all grades, backgrounds, and geographies to take part in future Over the Moon exhibits.
To be notified about upcoming calls for submissions, subscribe to our newsletter or get in touch through our Contact page. To view the Folk Animals in Bloom, click here.
About Story Preservation
Our Mission: Story Preservation Initiative believes in the transformative power of story to connect people around our common humanity and create a better future.
Our Work: We are a leading producer and online distributor of original, content-rich audio-based narratives for K-12 students. SPI stories are the raw materials of history, roadmaps to scientific discovery, and windows to the minds of artists and skilled tradesmen and women.
What We Achieve: SPI brings listeners into personal contact with extraordinary people whose stories engage their hearts and minds, imparting content knowledge and fostering curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking as they open doors to possible career paths in professions associated with the arts, sciences, humanities, and skilled trades. We are fully open-source.
When educating the minds of our youth, we must not forget to educate their hearts.
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