About

Meet the artist behind the work! My name is Jessica Whitteaker and I’m an Illustrator, Product Designer, and Oddities Artist that specializes in Lepidoptera. My goal is to preserve specimen while enhancing their beauty through my illustrations and craftsmanship. The average lifespan of a butterfly or moth is incredibly short, so this is a way of appreciating their beauty longer.

Growing up, I was fascinated by the caterpillars I raised into moths every spring. This taught me the process of growth and change at an early age, and throughout the iterative process of my illustrations I often reflect on metamorphosis as a source of inspiration. My primary influences stem from the Victorian era, Art Nouveau, nature, and fairy tales.

I have a BFA in Communications Design with a focus in Illustration from Pratt Institute alongside a minor in Cinema Studies.

Contact

For inquires, please email jwhitt.art@gmail.com or submit your message here.

FAQs

  • All insects are sustainably sourced from responsible conservation farms that protect insect species, counteract deforestation, and provide income to locals in rural areas.

    This is an ecologically beneficial and sustainable way to preserve insect species, protect endangered species, and conserve native habitats.

  • I find most of my small bones on hikes in the Pine Barrens and clean them myself. The cause of death for these animals cannot be determined but can be assumed to be natural. For other bones such as skulls, I purchase them from Indigenous Peoples.

  • Yes! I sell my artwork at craft shows, primarily the Lunar Faire in New Jersey. It takes place every new and full moon. Follow me on Instagram @jwhitt_art to stay updated on my show schedule. You can find the lunar faire on Instagram @lunarfaire

    I occasionally do other events as well.

  • Yes, I would love to bring your idea to life. I can either create entomology art for you or a stand alone illustration/painting. If you have a specimen you want pinned and framed, I can do that as well. Contact me at jwhitt.art@gmail.com or on Instagram @jwhitt_art