Free Spirit
Supermodel and animal rights activist Tatjana Patitz
Written by Kelsey McKinnon | Photographs by Eric Gabriel
For German-born supermodel Tatjana Patitz, Santa Barbara was home. It was far from the fashion capitals of New York and Paris where she rose to fame in the 1990s as one of the original five (that included Cindy, Christy, Stephanie and Naomi), but the quiet town nestled between the mountains and the sea was where Patitz felt most at peace. In recent years, Patitz was more selective with modeling jobs, focusing on environmental advocacy, riding her Andalusian ponies in the mountains, and, above all, being a devoted mother to her son, Jonah.
When the news broke that Patitz had passed away at age 56 on January 11, 2023, from breast cancer, it was a devastating reminder to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us, to be kind to each other and the planet.
Years ago during the pandemic, she posted a poignant message, “Love your fucking life. Take pictures of everything. Tell people you love them. Talk to random strangers. Do things that you’re scared to do…Take your life and make it the best story in the world.” Rest in peace.
