Born in Serbia without arms, Dejana Bačko grew up learning to navigate everyday life in a way that was different from most people. She learned to eat, write, dress herself and perform other daily tasks using her feet.

But one skill eventually became far more than a way to adapt.

It became her art.

From a young age, Dejana discovered a passion for drawing and painting. Holding a brush between her toes, she developed a remarkable ability to create detailed artwork using her feet. By the age of nine, she had joined an international association supporting artists who paint with their mouths or feet.

Over time, painting became more than a childhood interest. It became her profession and an important part of her identity.

Her journey through formal education was not always easy. When she sought to study art, she encountered doubts from people who questioned whether she could meet the requirements of an art academy without arms. Among the challenges she recalls were questions about whether she could complete practical assignments and even whether she could manage certain everyday tasks at the institution.

Instead of allowing those doubts to define her path, Dejana continued.

She eventually graduated with a degree in painting from the Academy of Arts in Novi Sad, Serbia.

But her story did not stop in the studio.

In 2016, Dejana began training in para taekwondo, entering a completely different world. Her progress was rapid, and she soon began competing on the international stage.

In 2019, she became a world champion in para taekwondo. Two years later, in 2021, she achieved the feat again.

She also explored para archery while continuing her professional work as an artist.

Yet despite her sporting achievements, painting has remained at the heart of Dejana’s life. Rather than defining herself only through disability or athletic success, she has often presented herself first and foremost as an artist who also competes in sport.

In 2023, another major chapter began when Dejana became a mother. She later reduced her involvement in competitive sport to devote more time to her daughter, family and painting.

Her story is not simply about overcoming a physical difference.

It is about building a life around talent, determination and personal choice.

Dejana Bačko is an artist.

A university graduate.

A world champion.

And a mother.

Her feet first became the tools she needed to navigate everyday life. They eventually became the tools with which she created art—and helped her reach the highest levels of international sport.

Sources / Further Information:

• International Association of Mouth and Foot Painting Artists (AMFPA)
• Academy of Arts in Novi Sad, Serbia
• World Taekwondo / Para Taekwondo records and athlete information
• Public interviews and profiles featuring Dejana Bačko