See how the self-taught artist’s work has evolved
As a child growing up in Union Heights, Demetrius Bing loved drawing abstract characters and figures until the world around him quietly steered him away. Art wasn’t encouraged in his school or his community, so like many creatives before him, he channeled his energy into athletics instead. It wasn’t until someone gifted him a Jean-Michel Basquiat print after high school graduation that something began to shift. Living with little more than a sofa and that artwork, Bing found himself transfixed by it one rainy day—right before it fell off the wall. That moment shook something loose.
At 29, he made the decision to return to his creative roots using acrylic on canvas as a way to confront the trauma he’d been carrying for more than two decades: the weight of surviving childhood sexual assault, a burden he had shouldered alone for most of his life. For Bing, art wasn’t just a passion rediscovered; it became his path to healing.
Today, the self-taught artist’s work has evolved, exploring the range of human emotions and experiences. His journey has made him deeply compassionate, wise beyond his years, remarkably courageous, a role model for often-overlooked kids, and a conduit for healing. Here, Bing shares his creative journey.
A New Beginning: When I first started painting, I became obsessed. When I love something, I stick to it. I do more intentional work now, plus I have to do other things you have to do with the business of art, such as making affordable art for all collectors, advertising, marketing, and learning other avenues to create revenue. My story sells my work.
Sharing His Story: It’s been very heartwarming to be known for what I do and to connect with so many people. Art can let you speak louder than what words can say. I’ve spent a lifetime in five years saying things that most people hold until they die. Art takes a lot of time, and nobody has time anymore, so we don’t take time to appreciate it. It’s one thing I’ve come to appreciate about myself—taking the time to make something for my heart and my soul.
Finding Purpose: Art gives me the life I always wanted. I’ve prayed to and pleaded with God for purpose in my life, otherwise I wouldn’t want to be here. He’s been steadfast and given me purpose; I’m grateful and indebted to my life’s journey. I’ve been on the wrong path in every way, but now to be sitting here painting a canvas on a Tuesday night is crazy.
His Evolution: I’m a student, I’m always learning. My art has evolved from trying to release what plagued me and the battles I faced in my life. That’s where I started, and I’ve grown. There’s no question anymore that I am an artist; I’ve come to my purpose of who I’m supposed to be in this world.
His Creative Process: My paintings are instinctual. Some are ideas I had five, 10, or 20 years ago. I crank the music up pretty loud, usually some R&B. I used to drink when I started painting because I was very sad, but I’ve learned to create without having a vice. I dive in, let the paint brushes choose the colors, and the canvas starts talking to me, and I start talking to it.
Working with Children: I’ve been invited to talk to kids in schools several times, and this year, I gave a talk during Black History month. Kids look up to people who look like me. They get to see themselves in somebody else who isn’t just an athlete. I tell them, “Yes, you can make this a career.”
Looking Ahead: I’m really excited to have seven pieces on Season 5 of Outer Banks. I was a presenter at PechaKucha in March. Later this year, I’ll be showing the third installment of a solo show called “Full Circle.” The show will have a cinematic feel with pictures of me as a kid, of the bad car accident I was in last year, of newspaper clippings, and things like that. The point is you don’t just arrive at where you are; it’s a process, and I want people to see it.
Find his Work: On Instagram, Facebook, my website, Hagan Fine Art, and Look Up Charleston; I like building relationships with people. They want to know me; they want to know if I’m real or it’s an act. I promise, I’m a real person.
