Each of these ceramic and copper works references rushnyky "tree of life" designs.

Rushnyk is a Ukrainian ceremonial towel used for marriage, childbirth, and death. Women of the community spend time hand-embroidering these towels to gift to loved ones.

Usually, you will find a "tree of life" embroidered on the towel, which symbolises longevity and prosperity.

Many rushnyks were hung in homes and used for protection from evil forces that may disrupt marital union, the passage of life, or the start of a new life.

During the Soviet Union, this embroidery practice was deemed "uncivil" and "too patriotic". Despite efforts to eradicate this craft, rushnyk embroidery became more prevalent across Ukraine and came to symbolize defiance. Today, rushnyk craft traditions have been used as an act of solidarity, political unification, and force of resistance to Russian occupation.

Further Reading:
Ukrainian Rushnyky: Binding Amulets and Magical Talismans in the Modern Period [PDF]