Odeta Xheka (Tschayka) is an artist, writer, poet and curator whose artwork is shown nationally and internationally as well as published in literary and art magazines. As part of her continuous conceptual and visual search for new opportunities for communion around art, she has founded and directs OXH Gallery of Art, an art venture that celebrates what's truly important: hoping when hope seems futile, allowing sorrow to  dwell in the deep crevices of the self and growing to appreciate the fragile beauty of existence despite the inevitable hardships. 

Born in Berat, Albania, Xheka lives in Tampa, Florida after 4 years spent studying art in Athens, Greece and another 16 years in Brooklyn, New York where she raised her children and grew her art practice.  

* Note to Self

Making art can feel like an act of exposure. Don't allow yourself to be restraint by conventional expectations. But also remember that just because it is your own story, that doesn't entitle you to an audience. You have to earn that.