Ohio Wesleyan Exhibition Features Art of "Bing" Davis '59

October 26, 2008

October 26, 2008, Greencastle, Ind. - "On the Shoulders of Ancestors," an exhibition of the work of acclaimed artist Willis "Bing" Davis, a 1959 graduate of DePauw University, is on display through November 16 at Ohio Wesleyan University's Richard M. Ross Art Museum. Davis will also will present an illustrated talk at 7 p.m. Thursday evening, according to College News.org.

"Davis' show is being exhibited in conjunction with the museum's eco-friendly show, 'Discarded to Distinctive,' which opened Oct. 1," notes the article. "Davis, like the five artists involved in 'Discarded to Distinctive,' incorporates many found or recycled items into his artwork. He believes this helps to 'demystify' the process of artistic creation and makes art more accessible to people."

"What I want the viewers to feel is something beyond the ordinary," Davis explains. "I want them to stop, pause, to reflect, and in that refection, hopefully, give honor and praise to those who went before and those on whose shoulders they stand." (at right: Davis' Ancestral Spirit Dance #382)

"Willis 'Bing' Davis creates striking artwork that incorporates the richness of his ancestry and his life experiences," said Justin Kronewetter, director of the Ross Art Museum. "His drawings, for example, are often inspired by the kente and Kuba cloth used in traditional African garments. His work has a very spiritual dimension, and I'm sure people will enjoy it."

Read the complete text by clicking here and learn more about Bing Davis in this previous article.

Back