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
California State University, Fresno - Mass Communications & Advertising, 2015
Solo Exhibitions
Devin Wesley Art: Solo Exhibition presented by Speed Media, Venice, CA 2019
Selected Group Exhibitions
Freedom Group Exhibition, Black & Mayberry, Los Angeles CA 2024
Frieze LA, Gallery 90220, Los Angeles CA, 2024
We Are LA Group Exhibition, The Beehive, Los Angeles, CA 2023
Art Noir Group Exhibition, The Battery SF, San Francisco, CA, 2023
Wearable Art Gala Group Exhibition, Waco Theater, Los Angeles, CA, 2022
Light & Shade Group Exhibition, Las Lagunas Gallery, Laguna Beach, CA, 2022
Made In California Juried Exhibition, Brea Gallery, Brea, CA, 2022
Art Is Love Group Exhibition, BG Gallery, Santa Monica, CA, 2020
Wearable Art Gala Group Exhibition, Waco Theater, Los Angeles, CA, 2019
17 Nations: An Exploration of Masculinity Group Exhibition, Innerspace Gallery, Los Angeles, CA, 2019
Awards and Recognition
In The Paint 2023-2024 Program Sponsored by The Lakers, Grantee Winner, 2023
Art Battle: LA Finals , Exchange LA Event Space , Los Angeles CA, 2022
Art Show International Gallery, 2022 International Juried Art Competition , Portrait Talent Prize Award, CA, 2022
Black Voices: Live Art and Music Event featuring Devin Wesley, Los Angeles CA, 2020
Art Battle, Exchange LA Event Space , Los Angeles CA, 2019
Form.less - Art, Music and Fashion Event featuring Devin Wesley, Los Angeles CA, 2019