Discover the Joy of Polish Paper Chandeliers (Pajaki) with Paula Hartmann

Discover the Joy of Polish Paper Chandeliers (Pajaki)
Duration: 10-4pm

Join artist Paula Hartmann for a hands-on workshop creating traditional Polish paper chandeliers, known as pajaki (pronounced pah-YONK-ee), at our beautiful alpaca farm in Prince Edward County.

Pajaki are joyful expressions of Polish folk tradition—colourful, suspended decorations made from paper and straw, traditionally hung from ceilings like chandeliers. The word pająk means “spider,” referring to their delicate, web-like structure. In Polish culture, spiders are considered symbols of good luck, and these intricate forms were created to bring harmony, abundance, and protection into the home.

Historically, pajaki were crafted by women during long winter evenings, gathered around a table in a spirit of shared creativity. More than decoration, they carried meaning—celebrating life’s rhythms, from harvests to weddings, and brightening homes during the darker months.
In this workshop, Paula guides you through the process of transforming simple materials into your own vibrant, sculptural mobile. Rooted in tradition yet open to personal expression, this practice invites both focus and play.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced maker, you’ll explore colour, rhythm, and form while creating a piece that feels uniquely yours. As the chandeliers take shape, the space fills with colour, movement, and a quiet sense of joy.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll take home your own pajak—a piece of living folk art to hang and enjoy.

All materials are provided, and participants are also welcome to bring their own specialty papers or decorative elements to personalize their work.

Paula Hartmann is a Toronto-based visual artist specializing in kinetic paper sculpture and community-based art. Originally from Germany, her work is inspired by traditional crafts such as Polish pajaki and Scandinavian himmeli, blended with a contemporary, playful approach. Using simple materials like paper and wire, she creates poetic, suspended installations that explore themes of impermanence, transformation, and belonging.

Her work has been featured in major public art events, including Nuit Blanche Toronto, the Burlington Waterfront Sculpture Trail, and City of Craft. She has also created site-specific installations for spaces such as the Gladstone House and collaborated with global brands including UGG.

Through her workshops, Paula creates warm, welcoming spaces where people of all backgrounds can reconnect with their creativity and experience the joy of making by hand.

What You’ll Learn

• Learn the traditional techniques behind Polish paper chandeliers (pajaki)

• Explore colour, rhythm, and composition in a sculptural form

• Build your own chandelier step by step

• Connect with the history and symbolism of this folk tradition

• Create a finished piece to take home and enjoy


Join us in the Studio Loft at Chetwyn Farms - our newly converted 1800s barn, where this small intimate group will work in an open, airy space.  Watch alpacas in the nearby pastures from the floor to ceiling windows in the studio space.  

Lunch on the Farm  - This workshop includes a light vegetarian lunch and refreshments during the day!

Participants will receive e-mail notification closer to date of workshop confirming final details including parking, suitable clothing, footwear etc.,