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Bing Davis Exhibits

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:

On the Shoulders of Ancestors: Ceremony and Ritual

Recent Art by Willis Bing Davis

Sept. 5–Dec. 6, 2024

1401 S. Main St., first floor

937-229-5400

Plan Your Visit

“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


  • 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Monday–Friday.
  • Closed Nov. 28–29 for Thanksgiving.
  • In general, it should take about 30 minutes to view the exhibit. Plan to arrive at least an hour before closing time.

Fitz Center New Building

Directions

  • 1401 S. Main St. is a brick building located between Creative Way and River Park Drive. The building is home to the Fitz Center, Dayton Foundation and Dayton Development Coalition. 
  • The exhibit is located in the first-floor lobby.

Parking

  • Parking is free, and a pass is not required.
  • Enter the adjacent parking lot from Creative Way. Overflow parking is available in the back portion of the GE lot directly behind the main lot.

What to expect

  • This exhibit is a self-guided experience and is appropriate for all ages.
  • Informational brochures are available.

 


Reach High, Reach Back: The Life of Bing Davis

Closed Nov. 8

Stuart and Mimi Rose Gallery, first floor of Roesch Library

300 College Park

937-229-4234

Visitors to this exhibit stepped into the captivating world of Willis Bing Davis, a cultural luminary whose journey from Colonel White High School to international acclaim has left an indelible mark on the artistic landscape. Davis serves as a beacon of inspiration, promoting social justice and championing the importance of representation in the arts. His archive represents more than a collection of documents; it's a platform to communicate the transformative power of art, the importance of cultural exchange and the enduring legacy of one man’s remarkable vision.

Acknowledgments

  • Art’s Rental Equipment
  • Department of Art & Design, University of Dayton
  • Dow Moving
  • Fitz Center for Leadership in Community, University of Dayton
  • Funds of The Dayton Foundation
  • Geno Luketic, Assistant Professor, Department of Art & Design, University of Dayton
  • Judith Huacuja, Exhibit Curator and Professor of Art & Design, University of Dayton
  • Martin Pleiss, Exhibit Designer/Chief Preparer, The Dayton Art Institute
  • Misty Thomas-Trout, Exhibit Graphic Designer and Associate Professor of Art & Design, University of Dayton
  • Nicholaus Arnold, Galleries Director, University of Dayton
  • Shon Curtis Photography
  • Turner Property Services Group
  • University Libraries, University of Dayton
  • Willis Bing Davis Art Studio & EbonNia Gallery

Planning Committee

  • Anna Demmitt
  • Regina Dixon
  • Changa Freeman
  • Judith Huacuja
  • Katie Jarrell
  • Katy Kelly
  • Nancy McHugh
  • Mike Parks
  • Lauren Poor
  • Kristina Schulz
  • Misty Thomas-Trout