Language Star of Texas by Demario Davis

Details

Title: Language 

Artist: DeMario Davis 

Completed in: 2015 

Partners: Arlington Tomorrow Foundation, Women Inspiring Philanthropy, Arlington Museum of Art, City of Arlington, Downtown Arlington, and private donors 

Language 

DeMario Davis covered the entire surface of his Star of Texas, entitled Language, with a complex mosaic of colors, pattern, and inclusive symbolism. Features of the design include the City of Arlington logo on one side and the word “dream” in multiple languages throughout. DeMario Davis created the piece to celebrate common ground across cultures. 

Growing up in a poor neighborhood, Davis couldn’t imagine becoming an artist. That changed when he moved to Texas. “Coming to Arlington changed my life in every single facet imaginable,” said Davis. He hopes that Language not only conveys his gratitude for achieving his dreams but encourages others to pursue theirs as well. 

Davis also invites visitors to interact with Language. “I want people to pick up on the words and learn how to say ‘dream’ in different languages. It’s another way to find common ground.” 

The Star of Texas project 

The Star of Texas project was launched in 2015 by the City of Arlington in collaboration with the Arlington Museum of Art. Its mission was to celebrate Arlington’s identity as “The American Dream City.” The six-foot fiberglass stars were designed by local artist Chris Cunningham. Local artists were invited to create designs on the stars based on their interpretation of how their American Dream comes to life in Arlington. Artists could use the medium of their choice. 

Once completed, the Stars were installed in visible locations around the city, including Downtown Arlington and the Entertainment District. Initially the project featured 20 stars, but due to strong local response to the project, six additional stars were added in 2017. The artworks were fabricated so that they could be displayed outdoors for three years, though many have remained well beyond that. 

By turning public spaces into open-air galleries, the Star of Texas project made art more accessible and encouraged residents and visitors to engage with their surroundings in new ways. The project has also been hailed for its role in boosting civic pride, supporting local artists, and highlighting the Downtown Arlington Cultural District. 

About the Artist 

Born in East Saint Louis, Illinois, DeMario Davis is a self-taught artist whose work spans sculpture, architecture, music, and spatial design. A graduate of Arlington’s Sam Houston High School, he served as a jet mechanic in the U.S. Marine Corps until 2009. He then studied journalism at the University of Texas at Arlington, contributing as a staff writer for The Shorthorn and writing for outlets including ESPN, TWC Sports, and Dallas Entertainment Journal. 

In 2011, Davis transitioned to visual arts, integrating his musical background and social passions into his work. He has created over 200 pieces, with installations in public and private collections including ART-USA, the Near Southside Historical District, Park Plaza Mural Project, and the Arlington Stars of Texas. Davis founded the Arlington Artist Guild in 2016 to foster collaboration, mentorship, and community engagement. He is also a rugby enthusiast, youth football coach, and gamer. 

Website: https://thedemariodavis.wordpress.com 

Instagram: @thedemariodavis 

About the Downtown Arlington Public Art Program 

The Downtown Arlington Public Art Program seeks to engage and inspire our community through art in public spaces. The Stars of Texas were funded by the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation, Women Inspiring Philanthropy, Arlington Museum of Art, City of Arlington, Downtown Arlington, private donors, and property owner contributions. To find more public art in Downtown Arlington, visit the links at the bottom of this webpage. Downtown Arlington is the Arlington Cultural District.