JESHAKA (pronounced Jes-Ha-Ka), aka Jes LaVecchia (she/her), is a mixed media artist native to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania & living in Albuquerque, New Mexico. From digital illustrations & acrylic paintings, to terrariums, comics & more; her body of work features an original, impish character called “WUT” and a whole lot of hotdogs. Jes started her artistic career after graduating from art school in 2009, letting the internet and shows like Adventure Time influence & shape her style. In 2013, the dark, triangle-head creatures emerged and she’s been using them ever since to explore her perspective and humor.

Why are they called WUT’s? Memes plus the fact that Jes has no idea where they came from or what they’re doing. They’re a life force all their own: Triangles represent manifestation, enlightenment, revelation, and a higher perspective. They are often used to mark the cycles of growth that lead to a higher state of being.

What’s with the hot dogs? Hot dogs are the quintessential embodiment of what it means to be American: horrifying, delicious, hilarious, revolting and everything in-between.

JESHAKA has shown her work in galleries across the US and worked with clients such as the American Lore Theatre, Healthy Ride & Converse, but her roots are in the DIY scene, selling the majority of her work at local markets. Connecting with her audience on a personal level and making her art available to all is where she finds value.