Willis "Bing" Davis: Reach High & Reach Back

Arts and Music Series

Few people have impacted the arts in Southwest Ohio quite like artist, activist and educator Willis “Bing” Davis. Davis’ artwork is known for its incorporation of African and African American themes, as well as its focus on social justice issues. His art often explores the intersection of race, identity, and history, as well as the power of community and collective action.

57m 27s / TV-PG

Not an Artist?

1m 32s

Everyone can be an artist - it's about expression and experience. Willis "Bing" Davis says we need to encourage young people to keep dreaming and keep working while continuing to incorporate art in education. Who says the sky isn't green?

Becoming an Artist

2m 2s

Although Willis "Bing" Davis had been pegged to be his community's next great athlete, he was five years old when he knew he wanted to be an artist. People laughed, but he never gave up hope and he never stopped working toward his dream.

Just Walk Away

1m 26s

Sometimes even the right music and the perfect morning walk doesn't result in a creative flow for the day. When it's just not working, Willis "Bing" Davis will walk away and try something else. Maybe it's sketching out a future piece or watching an ant crawl.

Creating with Found Objects

4m 7s

Willis "Bing" Davis likes using discarded and recycling material as a way of expanding one's understanding and appreciation of life and art. "We are a society that make things for our convenience and for our livelihood, but we also have a narrow perception of its functional use."

Creative Headspace

5m

After a lifetime of creating art, Willis "Bing" Davis knows a few things about getting stuck when you're trying to work creativity. For him, it's about getting into the flow. But how do you do that? It's different for everyone.

Being Ourselves & Clay

7m 25s

Willis "Bing" Davis loves working with clay. Whether you're using a wheel, a slab roller or your hands, it's just a special medium. Clay is also somewhat of a microcosm for our society - we can mold it and shape it, but we need the right tools and mindset.

Adornment & Understanding Others

4m 5s

Arts can help us understand ourselves and appreciate others. In this clip, Willis "Bing" Davis discusses how art can bridge cultures and how he uses found objects to make necklaces, belts, headwear and other art.

Reach High & Reach Back Preview

1m

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. The film, co-produced by Ann Rotolante and Rodney Veal, premieres in October of 2024.

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