Joanna Patejuk, a Ukrainian-Polish artist, is a true Renaissance woman with a passion for horses, camels, and art. Born in Poland, she has been traveling the world for over 20 years, combining her three passions into a harmonious blend. She is a professional jockey, horse racing trainer, camel champion jockey in the C1 Championship, and a self-taught artist who found her home in Dubai 13 years ago.
Drawing inspiration from legendary artists who have captured her heart, Patejuk tells her own stories through prominent figures from film, stage, and art. She graduated from the Academy of Physical Education in Gdańsk and has since been creating stunning artwork that blends the beauty of animals and people.
Patejuk is the creative director of her own brand, Chócherko Art, and is also a partner in the creative agency Visual Art Media Studies & Consultancies LLC. Her “Naughty Girls & Superheroes Collection” is exclusively represented by SamaLAin Gallery, and her paintings from the “Inspired Collection” are represented by the local booming brand Roomours at The Dubai Mall, YAS Mall, and NFT platform Virtua. Chócherko Art is dynamically developing in the local market, cooperating with brands such as Rixos, Dubai Verse Cup, Hats & Horses, and Art Fusion Night.
Patejuk’s painting entitled “Warrior Woman” was featured in Graphic Art 2021, the autumn collection of Medicine – one of the leading Polish fashion brands. Her art reflects her passion for riding as a deep bond between animal and rider, and she seeks to capture the same connection in her portraits and the art she creates. Patejuk also loves playing with colors and textures and sees her art as both ARTherapy and pure fun.
“I spent my childhood riding my beloved horses and watching movies in the local cinema where my mum worked as a projectionist. I also loved to draw. Horses have captivated me for 35 years, and my passion for art was rekindled just a few years ago. During my numerous trips related to horse racing, I consistently visited international racecourses and art galleries. Camels joined my interests when I moved to Dubai. Drawing on all of these experiences, I have always promoted the art of riding as a deep bond between animal and rider, and I naturally seek to capture the same connection in my portraits and the art I create. I also love playing with colors and textures, and I see my art as both ARTherapy and pure fun!” says Joanna.