Public art isn’t just about murals—it’s about identity, purpose, and how a city tells its story.

In this episode of the Make It Happen Podcast, Mike Vanderpool sits down with Dean Davis, one of Toledo’s most influential public artists, to talk about creativity, technology, and what it really takes to build a vibrant community.

Dean shares his journey from growing up in Toledo to serving in the Navy, working on the railroad, and ultimately finding his way back to art. The conversation dives into the difference between public art and gallery art, why public art is a form of servant leadership, and how creativity can drive economic growth and cultural pride.

They also tackle big topics like:

• Using AI as a creative tool without losing the human touch

• Why technology should support creativity, not replace it

• The vision behind the River Gallery Project and a citywide public art network

• How art helps people reconnect—to place, to each other, and to themselves

This is an honest, thoughtful conversation about art, humanity, and why cities like Toledo don’t need to reinvent themselves—they need to believe in what they already have.

🎙️ Make It Happen Podcast — conversations with people who are doing the work and shaping what’s next in Northwest Ohio.