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The editors of City Voices asked me to write a column since my last appearance in the fall 2004 issue titled Alone in my Room. I was pleased, no doubt, and flattered that my voice could be heard and—being a peer advocate—my work would be accomplished in giving voice to consumers who are really making strides in our community with art as the primary focus.

Our aim in this seasonal column will be to highlight the works of artists such as Dorian Davis who have benefited greatly from non-profit organizations and programs such as Hospital Audiences Incorporated (HAI) that specialize in art-related therapies, which literally save the lives of many struggling people.

I had a sit-down with Mr. Davis in SoHo on a Saturday morning at HAI where he was busy discussing his work that is presently on display for the fall-winter show called "Comic Relief."

Dorian got started around 20 years ago drawing stick figures and collecting comic books. Since coming to HAI in 2002, his work "started progressing." He says that HAI has given him "great exposure" with his painting and drawing. He mentioned another program called Harlem House where he met art therapist Daniella who, Dorian said, helped him a lot by exposing him to the use of colors.

I asked Dorian about the nature of his mental illness. He told me that it's hereditary. "My nerves started getting to me. In 1984, I got stressed out. It was real hectic." He was hospitalized at Ward's Island from July to October 1984 and very uneasy about being in an all-male ward.

Mr. Davis said, "I happen to be bipolar." I asked him if he had a choice, would he change the name and he said, "It really doesn't phase me, but I would change the stigma—words such as 'insane in the membrane' (lyrics from rap group Cypress Hill), and 'psycho.' I would say that they are a lie…for 14 years I haven't been hospitalized—now I'm 40. Every time Christmas comes around, I count my blessings that I'm not in the hospital." When asked about his urge to create, Dorian said, "My creativity is such a beautiful thing. I got an opportunity to do the hambone (a hand-to-knee-to-chest slapping dance that's rhythmical in nature) at the Apollo Theater, up on stage—rough crowd. I got to be an extra in the movie Shaft starring Samuel L. Jackson," he said, "I was this close to Vanessa Williams!"

"My art is my latest creativity," he said. He's been going two years strong and equally humble, not forgetting his thanks, "Big ups to Frank and Stephan!"

Director of the HAI Art Studio, Francis Palazzolo said, "He's transcending the superhero by giving it a painterly and expressionistic style…that is not normally dealt with in comic books or even fine art. [Dorian Davis' work] has a boldness and an extra sense of vitality…in vibrant colors."