YOU CAN GO HOME AGAIN
NEWS RELEASE
July 2026
Dayton-based artist Willis Bing Davis was born in Greer, SC in 1937. His family moved from Hampton Road in 1937 to Diamond Avenue in East Dayton when he was two months old.
The separation of his parents when he was 7 years old, along with economic struggles, contact was cut off with his hometown and relatives in Greer. His mother worked several jobs to raise the six children while telling each that they could become whatever they wanted to become.
Artist Bing Davis became known as a talented sports star from elementary school to high school but always had a dream of becoming an artist. He excelled in sports from elementary through high school and college, but continued developing his artmaking and teaching art. Him making art and teaching art won awards near and far in the United States and abroad, including China, Russia, Canada, South America, Bermuda, and West, Central and South Africa. What was missing in his many travels was a visit to his hometown of Greer, SC.
Thanks to a chance call from a man in Virginia Beach, VA calling the City of Greer Art Center inquiring about art by Bing Davis, the city became aware of “Dayton artist, Bing Davis” who was born in Greer, SC. The City of Greer, under the leadership of Robin Byouk, contacted Mr. Davis and coordinated a special one-man art exhibit project and a 3-day visiting artist program that took Mr. Davis into three schools and a ceramic demonstration for an adult class.
The May 4th art exhibit opening was highlighted by a surprise presentation by the City of Greer’s mayor, Rick Danner, who presented a proclamation declaring May 4th Willis Bing Davis Day and presented Mr. Davis with a key to the city.
An extra special feature added to this exceptional experience was the opportunity to meet and share his experience with more than 25 to 30 relatives that he met for the first time.
The art exhibit was on display from April 20th [to his birthday] - June 30th.
“You Can Go Home Again”
For additional information contact:
Willis Bing Davis Art Studio
1135 W. Third St. - Dayton, OH – 937.223.2290
Gallery Hours: Tuesday – Friday 11:00am to 5:00pm
Saturday by Appointment
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