Conversations with Willis Bing Davis

Today we’d like to introduce you to Willis Bing Davis.

Hi Willis Bing, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I have been deeply involved in art and sports since my pre-teen years. I was always making art and participating in basketball, football, and track. I achieved awards in art and all-city recognition in basketball and track. Attended college and excelled in art, basketball and track. Achieved MVP in basketball and selected into the DePauw University Hall of Fame. Majored in art education and taught art in public schools and several universities from 1960 to 1998. Developed as a visual artist from 1960- present, exhibiting in the USA and abroad, including England, France, Russia, China, West and Central Africa. I have operated a studio and gallery since retiring in 1998 from Central State University. I have continued to produce art, conduct workshops and serve as an independent curator.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Life is never smooth. There are always bumps in the road and hills to climb, but that is to be expected. It has been a great and fulling life with great people, friends, and wonderful travels and art experiences.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My art is about my joy of being an African American artist reflecting on my heritage and culture and reflecting on things and seeing, experiencing and feeling about what is around me. My art also addresses the social conditions that cause problems for African Americans and other people of color. As a former art teacher, I work in a variety of medium and processes, including drawing – painting – mixed media – ceramics and photography. I enjoy teaching and I feel that teaching is what I am known for. I am most proud of the growth, development and achievement of so many of my former students and our studio complex that has served my community, city and nation. The nation via the National Conference of Artists, which has been anchored in our Dayton-base studio on and off since the 1980s. If anything sets me apart, it would be my willingness to assist and serve developing artists whenever possible.

What are your plans for the future?
My plans for the future are to restructure my studio operation and restructure my life, to permit me to have more time to create art, rest more, and guide my children in operating the business.

Pricing:

• Paintings range $800 to $5000
• Ceramics range $25 to $500
• Mixed Media from $100 to $2500.
• Photography from $300 to $1500

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bingdavisartstudio.org