Interlude(s): WILLIS “BING” DAVIS July 21, 2021
Artist and educator Willis “Bing” Davis reflects on his African ancestry and the value of giving back to future generations.
Words: Rhea Beckett Photography:Shon Curtis Videography: Kameron Davis
Artist Willis “Bing” Davis at his studio in Dayton, Ohio Image by Shon Curtis for Black Artist Research Space, Inc. 2021
If you ask Willis “Bing” Davis about his art practice over the last 60 years he’ll tell you that he “makes things.” Now at 84 years of age, the art veteran discusses the influence of learning his African ancestry had on his life and how it continues to impact his art practice today, revealing the personal value of giving back to future generations of Black artists.
Willis “Bing” Davis was born in Greer, South Carolina in 1937 and grew up in Dayton, Ohio. He is a proud product of Dayton Public Schools and a graduate of Depauw University. For more than 60 years Davis has served as an educator, artist, mentor, activist, director, curator, among other creative roles for projects such as Willis Bing Davis Art Studio, EbonNia Gallery, and Shango: Center for African American Art and Culture.
Watch Interlude(s) Ep. 03: Willis “Bing” Davis” to learn more
“I have never let anyone define me as a painter, or sculptor, or craftsperson. I say I make things”
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This Interlude(s) episode was directed by and features the work of Willis “Bing” Davis students, photographer Shon Curtis, cinematographer and editor Kameron Davis, and Rhea Beckett for BARS.
To learn more about BARS ob Youtube visit:https://www.youtube.com/@blackartistresearchspace5613
To learn more about Willis “Bing” Davis visit:https://www.bingdavisartstudio.org/
To learn more about Shon Curtis visit:https://www.shoncurtis.com/
To learn more about Kameron Davis visit:https://www.junebugg.gallery/