Marta Pitchuk

Marta Pitchuk, a native of Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine, is celebrated for her artistic representation of Motanka dolls. These ancient Ukrainian talismans, traditionally crafted by mothers to protect their children, embody a deep sense of care, warmth, and protection. Pitchuk's artwork brings these age-old dolls to life, intertwining them with real women. The living Motanka transcends its status as an object to become a distinct personality, complete with individuality, thoughts, and perspectives, effectively reviving the past on canvas. The artist expertly captures the essence of each Motanka by intricately painting its facial features and surrounding it with threads, infusing the doll with a sense of soul. Each piece represents not only a beautiful image but also a profound personality, resonating with a range of emotions and sentiments. Through cyclical brushstrokes that reflect the traditional doll-making process and set against dark backgrounds, her work creates an enigmatic atmosphere that fosters intimacy as viewers engage with the Motanka. Pitchuk's artworks also incorporate elements of traditional Ukrainian attire, including lesser-known aspects that she has meticulously researched across various ethnic regions of Ukraine, highlighting their unique and extraordinary characteristics. Her collection is highly regarded and is found in private collections around the world, including in England, Germany, the Czech Republic, Italy, Austria, France, Luxembourg, Poland, Argentina, the USA, and Canada.