Dallas City Hall is set to unveil an exhibit showcasing Petrykivka art, a unique folk art form rooted in the Ukrainian village of Petrykivka. This exhibition marks a significant milestone in the relationship between Dallas and Ukraine, a partnership that was formalized when Mayor Eric L. Johnson and Mayor Ihor Terekhov of Kharkiv established a sister cities agreement in February 2022. Mayor Terekhov’s visit to Dallas in the spring further solidified this connection, enabling cultural and cooperative exchanges. The exhibit serves as a tribute to Ukrainian culture and offers a platform to acknowledge the contributions of North Texas’s Ukrainian community, which consists of artists, professionals, and newcomers who have enriched the region with their traditions and resilience.
Petrykivka art, celebrated for its elaborate floral patterns and dynamic brushwork, was recognized by UNESCO in 2013 as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This traditional art form has adorned Ukrainian homes and everyday objects for centuries, maintaining its intricate charm through generations.
In the present day, artists like Hanna Chekodanova are revitalizing Petrykivka art. Hanna discovered this traditional painting technique at the age of 10 and has dedicated over 25 years to perfecting her craft. Her vibrant works, filled with flowers, birds, and animals, are executed with expressive brush and finger strokes. Each piece is imbued with symbolism, conveying narratives of heritage, resilience, and cultural pride, all underscored by themes of love, hope, and light. Her art has received widespread acclaim, with exhibitions in countries such as the United Kingdom, the Czech Republic, and Canada.
Due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Hanna has relocated to Dallas, where she continues to create, merging the timeless tradition of Petrykivka with a modern perspective. Her artworks are not only ornamental but also tell a personal story of perseverance and an enduring bond with her homeland.
The exhibition will be open from August 1st through August 8th, 2025, at the Main Lobby of Dallas City Hall. On Wednesday, August 6th, from 3 pm to 4 pm, Hanna Chekodanova will be present to engage with visitors, offering an opportunity to learn more about the cultural significance of Petrykivka art.
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