Wes Winship, an Asian American muralist, fine artist, and printmaker, from chance encounters with a group of local artists in the early '90s, Wes has become a cornerstone of the Twin Cities graffiti and art scene. Co-founding the groundbreaking graphic arts and screen-printing studio Burlesque of North America, the Chroma Zone Mural & Arts Festival, and the influential graffiti magazine "Life Sucks Die," Wes has carved a legacy over the past three decades.
Hailing from Vermont, Wes's passion for cartoons and comic books guided him to Minneapolis at the age of 13, where he immersed himself in the vibrant graffiti culture. Teaming up with like-minded friends, he co-created the iconic "Life Sucks Die" magazine, a practice guide and historical document capturing the essence of graffiti's artistic development at the time.
The experience of producing the magazine equipped Wes with essential skills in design, desktop publishing, and marketing—skills that laid the foundation for the establishment of Burlesque of North America. From its humble beginnings as a basement screen printing operation, Burlesque has evolved into a globally renowned creative powerhouse.
Over the years, Wes and his team at Burlesque have crafted limited edition prints, concert posters, album packaging, stage graphics, and more for an impressive roster of clients, including Grammy Award-winning musicians like Arcade Fire and cultural institutions like Minnesota Public Radio and Nike Sportswear.
Driven by a DIY ethos and a relentless passion for creativity, Wes Winship continues to innovate, leaving his mark on the Twin Cities and beyond.