BIOGRAPHY

Just Joking Art is a latin owned experimental art brand based in Kansas City, MO founded by Heber I. Alarcon-Ortiz in 2009. Specializing in everything surreal and psychedelic in all realms of art, from graphic design and surrealism doodle art to music and videography. Heber's work blends street art influences with contemporary design. His artistic roots are tied to urban street culture, with a special interest in graffiti styles, stencil art, and hand-drawn portraiture. Inspired by legendary artists like MC Escher and Shepard Fairey (aka OBEY), Heber’s pieces are known for their intricate detail and thought-provoking messages.

As a Kansas City native with a passion for travel, Heber has always been fascinated by natural and urban landscapes and how art can transform public spaces. For a decade now Heber has developed a passion for photography that reflects his appreciation. His early experiments with graffiti designs on paper also evolved into a deep love for surrealism, leading him to develop his unique style of doodle art. He’s crafted a portfolio of surreal and abstract figures, often featuring hidden symbols and logos, allowing viewers to find new interpretations with each look.

The Just Joking moniker and logo originated from Heber's fascination with urban street art. The logo, once inspired by a joker hat, now stands for the playful and thought-provoking essence of Just Joking Art. Heber began using the phrase "just joking" as a light-hearted way to push boundaries and challenge conventional art forms, and the name stuck. Over time, his logo became a recognizable symbol of the brand's core values—creativity, humor, and depth.

Heber has a bold vision for the future of Just Joking Art, aiming to grow his brand into apparel, large-scale murals, and collaborations with other artists and designers. He believes that art is a vessel for activism, hoping to use his work to raise awareness for social and environmental issues while connecting with communities locally and beyond.