On December 22, the long-awaited event – the offline masterclass “Winter Fairy Tale” – took place, where participants learned to create Christmas and New Year decorations using various techniques.

The event was held in the shelter of NTU “KhPI” and was organized by the staff of the Department of Ceramics, Refractories, Glass, and Enamels. Thirty high school students from grades 10-11 and their parents from Kharkiv and Kharkiv district attended the event.

The event began with a welcoming speech by the head of the department, Professor Olena Fedorenko, who shared what participants could expect during the workshop.

Afterward, with the guidance of department professors Oksana Borysenko and Viktoriia Taranenkova, participants were introduced to the basic techniques and materials they would use during the masterclass.

The masterclass consisted of two sessions. All participants were divided into three groups: the first group made decorations by casting plaster, the second modeled ceramic decorations from clay, and the third group worked with polymer clay to create intricate cut-out designs.

Later, the groups rotated to try their hands at different techniques. The atmosphere was lively and relaxed; participants, as well as the organizers, enjoyed the direct interaction, showing creativity, friendliness, and positivity throughout the event.

Between the two sessions, participants watched fascinating chemical experiments presented by Alla Korohodska, the head of the Department of General and Inorganic Chemistry. She not only demonstrated spectacular chemical reactions but also explained their practical applications, such as in forensic science or pigment production.

Afterward, Olena Fedorenko introduced the participants to the work of the department, its main research areas, as well as the career and financial prospects available to its graduates.

At the end of the event, everyone took part in an entertaining Kahoot quiz, learning about the materials and technologies studied at the department. The winners – Kateryna, Tetyana, and Bohdan – received delightful prizes. Additionally, all participants took home their handmade decorations to adorn their Christmas trees.

The children and parents were thrilled and happy. Upon leaving, many expressed their desire to attend future masterclasses. We, too, look forward to organizing similar events. See you at our next events and activities!