Frieze Los Angeles, 2024
Devin Wesley (b. 1993) is a LA–based visual artist recognized for his black-and-white oil paintings exploring the multifaceted nature of Black identity. A former track and field athlete, Wesley’s path shifted after a career-ending injury led him back to his first love: art. Pulling from his own experiences of resilience, transformation, and healing, he uses portraiture as a mirror for reflection; inviting viewers to look inward and consider the emotions they carry.
His work examines the dualities that define the human experience such as strength and softness, joy and pain, vulnerability and power—and how they shape who we become. Contrast is central to his practice.Through the interplay of light and shadow, he reveals the innate brilliance that emerges from embracing both sides of the self.
Beyond the canvas, Wesley uses his work as a tool for social impact. He's collaborated with Pattern Beauty, Adobe, YouTube, BET, and Listos California to address topics such as racial inequality, mental wellness, and climate change. His work has also appeared in curated group exhibitions and art fairs, including Frieze Los Angeles in 2024.
Curriculum Vitae
Education
2015 — B.A., Mass Communications & Advertising, California State University, Fresno
Solo Exhibitions
2019 — Devin Wesley, Speed Media, Venice, CA
Selected Exhibitions
2026 — Savage ‘The Future Is Ours’ , Band of Vices, Los Angeles, CA
2026 — Still Life, Band of Vices, Los Angeles, CA
2025 — BUTTER Art Fair, presented by Art Melanated, Indianapolis, IN
2025 — Iconic Now, Launch Gallery, Los Angeles, CA
2024 — Frieze Los Angeles, presented by Gallery 90220, Los Angeles, CA
2023 — Art Noir, The Battery, San Francisco, CA
2022 — Wearable Art Gala Exhibition, WACO Theater Center, Los Angeles, CA
2020 — Art Is Love, BG Gallery, Santa Monica, CA
2019 — Wearable Art Gala Exhibition, WACO Theater Center, Los Angeles, CA
Awards and Recognition
2026 — Grand Prize Winner, Savage Emerging Artist Competition, Art Melanated
2023 — Grantee, In the Paint Program, Los Angeles Lakers
2022 — Portrait Talent Prize Award, International Juried Art Competition, Art Show International Gallery
Collaborations and Projects
2026 — Pressed Juicery, Black History Month Artist Partnership
2024 — Black Art Magazine, Cover Artist
2024 — Pattern Beauty, Artist Collaboration
2024 — BET, Black + Iconic Showcase
2024 — Listos California, Climate Awareness Campaign
2023 — YouTube Originals, Recipe for Change, Featured Artist
2022 — Adobe, When I See Black Campaign