Willis “Bing” Davis: Reach High & Reach Back
About
Few people have impacted the arts in Southwest Ohio quite like Willis “Bing” Davis. An African American artist, educator and community activist from Dayton, Davis’ artwork is known for its incorporation of African and African American themes, as well as its focus on social justice issues. He works in a variety of media, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, clay and found object art. His art often explores the intersection of race, identity, and history, as well as the power of community and collective action.
Among his works, many have been featured in public and private collections alike from the United States, Europe and China to Ghana, Senegal and Nigeria with exhibits featured in the Museum of Harlem, the African Craft Museum, the Renwick Gallery, the Dayton Art Institute, and many more. He has received numerous honors and awards throughout his career, including the Ohio Governor’s Award for the Arts, the Citizen Legion of Honor Award from the Presidents Club of Dayton, and the Ohio Art Educator of the Year Award.
In addition to his artistic pursuits, Davis is a dedicated community activist and educator. He founded the EbonNia Gallery in Dayton, Ohio, which showcases the work of many types of artists and serves as a community gathering place. Today, in his mid-80s, Davis continues to create art, educate others and promote social justice causes in a variety of ways.
This film is being produced by Emmy Award winners Ann Rotolante and Rodney Veal .
Caption: Videographer Zach Kramer records an interview at Bing Davis’ Dayton gallery.
Caption: Archival photographs of Bing Davis.
Caption: Zach Kramer and Ann Rotolante record an interview with Bing Davis at his local church.
Caption: Shon Curtis takes photos of Bing Davis ahead of the new documentary.
Caption: Bing Davis makes found art in the basement of his gallery in Dayton.
Caption: Co-Producer Rodney Veal and Bing Davis talk review archival footage.
Caption: Bing Davis finds art supplies in and around Dayton.
Learn about Willis “Bing” Davis with this 2016 episode of The Art Show.
The Art Show – Season 5, Episode 3
Dayton’s Willis “Bing” Davis uses the arts to spark dialogue and build community. Columbus artist Marc Lincewicz creates dream-like pen and ink drawings. Art spans the generations in Continuance from father to son in Colorado Springs. We visit the Barber Lounge Unplugged in Albany, New York.
