Calendar

Willis Bing Davis is an internationally recognized artist, educator and community activist. These exhibits showcase the significance of his life’s work to the Dayton, African American and artistic communities.

Sponsored by:

• The Dayton Foundation
• The African American Visual Artists Guild
• The Dayton Development Coalition
• University of Dayton Fitz Center for Leadership in Community, Department of Art and Design and University Libraries

“This very special exhibit reflects the continual celebration of the Ancestral Spirit Dance series, as well as works that address social issues that impact people of color in America and beyond.  I, as many, draw strength and inspiration from ancestors who continue to speak to us and through us. Even when I appear to be walking alone … I am not. The spirit of the ancestors is never far away, providing comfort, vision, and direction.

The social commentary that is reflected in much of my artwork is my way of encouraging conversation, dialogue and a search for positive resolutions to some of the many problems impacting our daily lives.

The Anti-Police Brutality series, the Colin Kaepernick/George Floyd Knee Cushion series and the Breonna Taylor series serve not only as efforts of cultural memory or a place of memorial, but also as a renewal of spirit and strength.

I have come to understand and appreciate the fact that the arts can not only reflect the various concepts of beauty, as seen in various cultures around the world, but the arts can also serve as agents of change for a world in search of a humane way to share the limited land, water and wealth called Earth.”

— Willis Bing Davis