ROY presents: Tyler Davis
ROUND OF APPLAUSE (OITNB/I CARE ALOT)
What that nigga— what's that Jeezy song say, nigga?
"Last time I checked I was the man on these streets!"
Yeah, yeah, that shit right there
I'm tryna be the nigga in the street
There he go. Man, you don't even know how the shit go
- Kendrick Lamar (Art of Peer Pressure)
I grew up on the South East Side of Columbus Ohio between two homes, my single Mom (40+) and Grandmother (70+). Chunks of my life can be orchestrated into a playlist of music whether they have direct correlation to me or simply what I was listening to at the time. Memories such of my Ma’ doing home cardio blaring “The New Workout Plan”, to my Grandma’ humming “Enchantment” while cooking Sunday dinner. Music has become a source for me to escape, express, and explain myself.
Music is & has always been a major part of my studio practice. Playing specific records to engulf myself in moods/thoughts to develop the work. Exploring this further by pulling influence/inspiration from albums, songs, and verses/chorus' by varied music artist to create specific pieces. Using sculpture, mixed media, text, painting, zines & installation to create visual annotations that speak on self assessment/reflection on social and racial injustice while keeping a humorous tone.
ROY asks
1. What is your name and preferred pronouns?
Tyler Eugene Davis He/Him
2. How has art (whether it be your own or art in general) changed you?
I have always created. I played in the dirt, banged pots and pans, mixed flour and water creating. Experimenting with new ideas, concepts, and materials, while learning to trust myself more and the capabilities I have. Also having to realize and remember the system we all work in strategically tries to suppress us.
3. How did you start your artistic practice?
I’ve been asking questions and creating since my first memory as a child. Hahahaha I eat, sleep and breathe art. My Mother and my Grandmother encouraged me to do so. My Mother and Grandmother always made sure to tell me I was creative and that my art was valued. I work off of a sense of urgency when obtaining material and imagery allowing the childlike aspect of myself to take center stage. As I learn more about my culture I learn to accept myself and my creativity.
4. When a first-time viewer sees your work, what is the first word that you hope they think when looking at it?
Whatever they feel.