Artist Name: Darren G. Davis
Mediums: Storyteller
Location: Portland, OR
What mediums do you use for your art?
I’ve been telling stories through comic books for the past 25 years—and I’ve loved every minute of it. It all began with a comic I created called 10th Muse, which soared to become the 6th highest-selling comic at the time. Fun fact: it was actually inspired by the movie Xanadu! While I still enjoy creating fiction, much of my recent work has focused on non-fiction storytelling through comics.
What is your core inspiration for your art?
Storytelling has always been at the heart of everything I do—that’s my core inspiration. I’ve been creating comics for over 25 years, and it all started with wanting to tell stories that meant something to me. Whether it’s a fictional universe or a real-life biography, I’m inspired by people who rise above challenges and find their voice. Comics are such a powerful medium to connect, represent, and inspire—and that’s what keeps me going. Also, my family is a huge part of that inspiration. Everyone from my niece to my husband has a character named after them in one of my fiction books. It makes the work even more personal and meaningful.
What do you think your role as an artist is in the community?
I think being creative and giving back go hand in hand. As an artist, it’s important to support the community that supports you. We’ve done a lot with schools and libraries, and we’ve also donated items for local auctions—like the Cascade AIDS Project and other amazing nonprofits here in the Northwest. It’s all about using your work to make a positive impact.
What would you like to see happen in the art world to include the LGBTQ+ community more?
From my perspective, I’d love to see more authentic LGBTQ+ stories being told—not just as side plots or token characters, but as the main narrative. And not just in fine art spaces, but in comics, pop culture, everywhere. Representation matters, and it’s powerful when people see themselves reflected in the stories they read or the art they love. I think giving LGBTQ+ creators more platforms and letting them lead the conversation is key. Let them tell their own stories, their own way. That’s how real change happens. We just released a Chappell Roan biography comic book called FAME” Chappell Roan”.
How has art impacted your life?
Art—especially comic books—has shaped my entire life. As a kid, I was obsessed with this medium. I loved getting lost in those pages, the storytelling, the characters—it sparked something in me early on. I never outgrew that love. Now, getting to actually create and produce comics for a living is something I don’t take for granted. It’s come full circle. Art gave me a voice, a career, and a way to connect with others—and hopefully inspire the next generation the same way I was inspired growing up.
Who are your favorite artists?
Living in the Northwest and attending local art auctions, we’ve collected a lot of incredible pieces from local artists—our home is full of them. One of my favorites is this amazing hanging light made out of a coffee can by a Portland artisan. It’s such a unique piece. Since getting married, I had to accept that my comic book art is mostly limited to my office—though I definitely made the most of that space! My favorite comic book artist of all time is George Pérez. His work had a huge influence on me.
Where can people see your art?
Most of our stuff is available through Amazon, so that’s the easiest place to find our books. We’re also partnering with some awesome comic book retailers—like “Comic Tom” in Seattle—to get our titles into more shops and into the hands of collectors. You can also check out what we’re working on through social media and on our website at www.tidalwavecomics.com. We’re always sharing new releases, sneak peeks, and behind-the-scenes stuff there.
What does it mean to be a Queer artist to you?
For me, being a queer artist means being unapologetically authentic in the stories I tell and the art I help bring to life. As a creator and producer in the comic book world, I see it as a chance to open doors—not just for myself, but for others in the LGBTQ+ community. Representation matters, and being able to reflect our experiences, identities, and voices in comics is powerful. It’s about showing that we belong in every genre, from superheroes to biographies, and everywhere in between.
