Spencer Wells grew up in Eau Claire, Wisconsin and attended college at UW-Madison. In his free time, he’s always enjoyed attending his local musician friends’ performances and documenting those moments with his camera.
He recently paired those photos with essays in the new book, “Forward.”
In the book’s foreword, Wells suggested that Wisconsin musicians have been able to thrive and create in an inclusive community. “[It’s] across genres, because there wasn’t anywhere else to grow,” he said.
Collage from the book, “Forward” (Spencer Wells)
Wells went beyond, what he calls, “metropolitan Milwaukee, liberal Madison and musician-friendly Eau Claire.” He also explored an art festival in rural Janesville, Appleton psych-pop bands like Tenement, and Sheboygan singer-songwriter Cedarwell.
The book features several artists that Wells believes represent an ambition and variety unique to Wisconsin.
THOMAS WINCEK
Thomas Wincek (Spencer Wells)
Projects: Volcano Choir, All Tiny Creatures, Emotional Joystick, Field Report
RORY FERREIRA
Rory Ferreira (Spencer Wells)
Projects: Milo, Scallops Hotel, Nostrum Grocers
ADELYN STREI
Adelyn Strei (Spencer Wells)
Projects: Adelyn Rose, Yohuna, Feathe
WHILDEN HUGHES VI
Whilden Hughes VI (Spencer Wells)
Projects: Double Ewes, Rock County Folk Symposium
JONATHAN SUNDE
Projects: J.E. Sunde, Daredevil Christopher Wright
