Discover the fascinating intersection of mathematics and art in a unique workshop experience with Hungarian artist Ildikó Fekete, presented in partnership with Tulipán Foundation. Over the course of 90 minutes, you’ll dive into the fascinating history and symbolism of Eastern European decorated eggs and leave with your very own hand-decorated egg to take home.
Decorating eggs is more than a springtime tradition. It’s a 1,500-year-old art form full of meaning. The patterns, from stars and flowers to intricate geometric designs, are guided by mathematics. Rotational, reflectional, and translational symmetry all play a role, making each egg a miniature work of art where math and creativity meet.
Using the wax-resist technique (tojásírás), delicate motifs are drawn in melted wax before the egg is dipped into layers of dye. During the workshop, Ildikó will demonstrate this technique, explain the cultural significance of the designs, and guide participants as they try this art form for themselves.
These workshops have been for adults and children ages 3 and up, however, younger children may need a helping hand from an adult. There will be nine sessions available across three days. Each session covers the same activities, so everyone can go at their own pace and enjoy the process. Registration is now open, and spaces fill quickly, so click here to reserve your spot today.
WORKSHOP DETAILS
Location: MoMath, 635 6th Ave, New York, NY
Dates: March 29, 30, 31, 2026
Time Slots: 90 minutes each
- 10:30am-12:00pm
- 1:00pm-2:30pm
- 3:00pm-4:30pm
ABOUT ILDIKÓ FEKETE
Ildikó Fekete is an award-winning egg decorator and researcher celebrated for her mastery of the wax-resist technique, a cherished art form in Hungary and beyond. With a collection of over 5,000 intricately decorated eggs, she draws inspiration from regional motifs to create her own unique designs, blending geometric patterns with symbolic folk elements.
As a recipient of the Tulipán Global Heritage Award, Ildikó has expanded her research to Slovak, Polish, and Czech wax-resist motifs. She has also received numerous honors, including the Young Master of Folk Art and the Junior Prima Award. Her 2019 book, Message Written in Wax, explores the wax-resist technique and egg-decorating traditions across 15 Hungarian regions. Her work has been exhibited internationally, with solo shows in Beijing, New York, Sydney, and Tel Aviv, sharing her artistry and expertise with audiences around the world.