Wes Modes is a California-based artist whose multidisciplinary work spans social practice, sculpture, and new media. With a career marked by a deep engagement with storytelling and community, Modes integrates personal and collective narratives into their art, creating immersive experiences that challenge conventional perspectives on history and society.
A hallmark of Modes’ work is the decade-long project “Secret History of American River People,” which documents the lives of individuals living along American rivers through a blend of oral history, photography, video, and sculpture. This project has been exhibited nationally, offering audiences an intimate look into the stories of often-overlooked communities and challenging dominant historical narratives.
Modes’ recent work in new media, including projects like “DriftConditions” and “WesBot,” showcases a pioneering approach to digital art. “DriftConditions” uses procedural generation to create evocative soundscapes, reminiscent of late-night radio, that transport listeners into a world of chance encounters and mysterious harmonies. “WesBot,” an AI-driven assistant, reflects Modes’ innovative use of technology to extend their artistic and educational reach, engaging users in interactive learning experiences.
The collaborative webzine “Unavoidable Disaster” exemplifies Modes’ versatility and willingness to push the boundaries of traditional media. Featuring a mix of illustration, found objects, and interactive elements, this project creates a platform for unconventional narratives and creative expression, inviting contributions from a global community.
Modes is also known for “Black Rock Station,” an interactive installation that delves into the mythos of the Black Rock Desert, blending historical and fictional narratives to create a space that encourages exploration and engagement.
Deeply involved in community arts, Modes co-founded cultural spaces like Free Skool Santa Cruz and SubRosa Community Space, emphasizing accessibility and inclusivity in the arts. Their work continues to resonate with audiences, offering new ways of seeing and understanding the world through art.
Greetings Wes,
You helped me with an event at SubRosa (A Year and 4 Months) after Howard Zinn passed away –
and also introduced me to the work of Harlan (& Anna) Hubbard.
I’m creating a t-shirt with the theme Most of My Heroes have Done Some Time in Jail.
I was wondering if you’d been jailed for your social justice work (or at all)
and if I could add your name to my t-shirt.
I also would like to buy property in which I could have open camping and folks on the place
I would love to talk to you about that also if you have any time.
I so appreciate how articulate you are in your article Santa Cruz: Why I Hate you.
cheers!
D Nunns
dnunns@cruzio.com