Today we’d like to introduce you to Darryl Demps.
Hi Darryl, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Oh man. My story. Where do I begin? Well, long story short, I’m a multi-media creative and a professional rollerskater based in Austin, TX.
Long Story?
I combine painting, wood-carving, and photography to express my experiences and inspirations from life. I began creating artwork in college while pursuing my BFA at Texas State University. While in attendance, I was able to fine-tune the already present creative within myself and learn new methods of self-expression. Using and experimenting with different mediums, I was able to expand my skill base and extend my oeuvre. Shortly after graduating, I began working as an artist assistant for Gil Bruvel, for whom I still work with today, and it was at his studio where I extended my knowledge of woodworking and this integrated into the art I create presently.
Prior to my formal artistic education, there was another art form that captivated and enticed me; rollerskating. My passion and career began when I was 11, as the skating rink became my comfort zone and skating became my means of escape. Through practice and dedication, I progressed over time and ended up competing nationally, becoming sponsored, and performing locally. Presently my visual art and skating have become intertwined and a majority of my art is based on my skating experiences.
Today, I teach skate lessons locally, and I’m open for art commissions. If you ever want to book me or an awesome group of skaters for entertainment, you can book us through Ignite on Wheels!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Comparatively, yes and no at the same time. There’s definitely a duality there. I feel like I’m constantly learning new things which is very humbling but also a necessity for growth. On a day to day basis, it feels like there has been progressive shifts and as I continue to reflect on the big picture, it’s been one smooth transition. Becoming selective of the contrasting sides of things and choosing where to align my focus has remained a challenge however, I strive to submit myself to the natural rhythm of it all. The biggest challenge for me, I will say, is my mental health. When I’m up, I’m up. When I’m down-it’s different and I’ve had to take the time to learn to navigate and direct myself towards a progressive future.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m known for my portrait paintings and my skating. The most common form of art you’re going to get from me is an oil painting on a woodgrain background. On more intricate pieces, I carve into the background to give the artwork a more organic form.
If you ever catch me skating, I’m usually just vibing and people seem to be entertained by that. I’m working on combining my skating and painting. I’m excited to create this new form of expression.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I love that there are so many opportunities here. It’s so abundant I love it. The thing I dislike, being born and raised here, is that I feel Austin has lost its original culture with everyone moving here. I get it though, so it is what it is.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darryldempsjr/?hl=en
