For Black History Month, artist Davian Chester used his Wacom Cintiq 16 to create a powerful and inspiring cartoon, “What’s Stopping You?” This thought-provoking piece tackles the often present, yet unspoken, anxieties surrounding representation in creative fields, and serves as a reminder that taking risks can lead to powerful change.
Davian, a talented artist with a diverse portfolio, crafted this nine-panel comic that aims to resonate deeply with the experiences of many Black artists. The story follows a Black artist working on a character design for a major client. He’s given creative freedom, but a crucial question lingers: should he create something “safe” that he thinks the client will like, which won’t ruffle any feathers? Or should he do something more authentic? He confides in a friend, admitting his fear of pushing for representation and the potential rejection that might follow.
This moment of vulnerability is where the heart of Davian’s message lies. His friend’s response is a powerful call to action, reminding him that history is made by those who dare to take risks. Names like Jackie Ormes, Octavia Butler, and Sidney Poitier – trailblazers who defied expectations and broke barriers – are invoked as beacons of inspiration. These figures, who boldly shaped their respective fields, serve as a potent reminder that progress is born from courage.
Inspired by this historical context, the artist takes a leap of faith. He redesigns the character as Black, embracing the opportunity for representation. The culmination of the story sees the client’s enthusiastic approval, underscoring the cartoon’s central theme: often, the biggest obstacle we face is our own fear.
Davian’s choice of medium, the Wacom Cintiq 16, further emphasizes the connection between artistic creation and technological advancement. This powerful tool allows artists like Davian to bring their visions to life with precision and fluidity, pushing the boundaries of digital art. Just as the historical figures he references broke barriers in their time, Davian uses modern tools to tell stories that resonate with contemporary audiences and inspire future generations.
“What’s Stopping You?” is more than just a comic strip; it’s a conversation starter. It encourages artists, especially Black artists, to embrace their power to shape narratives and create characters that reflect the rich tapestry of our world. It serves as a timely reminder that representation matters, and that taking calculated risks can lead to incredible rewards. Davian Chester’s work is a testament to the power of art to not only entertain but also to inspire, educate, and empower. His Black History Month comic is a reminder that sometimes, the only thing stopping us is fear, and that by embracing our potential, we can create a more inclusive and representative world.
About the Artist
Davian Chester is a talented and versatile artist whose work spans illustration, character design, and comics.
Davian uses his passion for visual storytelling to explore themes of identity, representation, and the human experience. His distinctive style blends dynamic lines with expressive characters, creating engaging narratives that resonate with and inspire diverse audiences.
“What’s Stopping You?” is a powerful example of his ability to weave compelling stories with impactful visuals, demonstrating his dedication to promoting representation and empowering artists to embrace their unique voices. You can explore more of Davian’s work on Instagram, YouTube, or X (Twitter).
