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Memories & Inspiration: The Kerry and C. Betty Davis Collection of African American Art
February 4–May 14, 2023 | Fifth Third Gallery
Memories & Inspiration features selections from the private collection of Kerry and C. Betty Davis. For over 35 years, Mr. Davis, a retired postal worker, and Mrs. Davis, a former television news producer, have collected with a focus on diverse 20th- and 21st-century approaches to the Black image. According to Mr. Davis, “Our goal is to preserve cultural memories and provide the community with a source of inspiration.” The exhibition features approximately 60 works of art, including paintings, prints, drawings, photographs, sculptures, and mixed media by well-known African American artists Romare Bearden, Elizabeth Catlett, Sam Gilliam, Loïs Mailou Jones, Jacob Lawrence, Gordon Parks, Alma Thomas, and others.
Organized and toured by International Art & Artists, Washington, DC, Memories & Inspiration provides an example of a private collection formed by a singular vision. The Davis residence has been called “a museum in a home,” offering an enlightening comparison to Charles and Anna Taft’s own collection. The Davises’ collection reveals their hopes and passions, infusing Memories & Inspiration with tremendous personal power.
GET TICKETS
Admission is free for Taft members, guests of members with guest pass, military, and youth(18 and under); $12 for adults; $10 for seniors. Non-members save $2 by purchasing tickets online.
Experience the Exhibition
Enjoy special tours, behind-the-scenes insights, and more during this unique exhibition!
Sam Gilliam, Untitled, 1974, oil acrylic on rice paper. Photo by Gregory Staley, Courtesy of David Kordansky Gallery, Los Angeles, CA, © Sam Gilliam
Members' Opening Reception
On-Site Program
Thursday, February 2
5–8 p.m.
Join us for an exclusive members’ opening and explore our new special exhibition. This program will feature remarks from President/CEO Rebekah Beaulieu, as well as music, and special access to the exhibition. Light bites and drinks. Free valet parking.
Complimentary for Sustaining Level ($275+) Taft members; $20 for Taft members; $30 for guests of members.
Charles White, Lily C., 1973, etching. Photo by Gregory Staley, © The Charles White Archives
Members' Preview Day & Tours
On-Site Program
Friday, February 3
10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Tour times: 11:15 a.m., 1:15 p.m., and 2:15 p.m.
Join us for an exclusive members’ preview day! Tours are available with advance registration.
Free for Taft members and guests of members with guest pass.
Family Funday | Memories & Inspiration
On-Site Program
Sunday, February 5
10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Explore the Taft’s newest exhibition, Memories & Inspiration: The Kerry and C. Betty Davis Collection of African American Art, with the whole family! Discover work from the nation’s most influential Black artists of the 20th and 21st centuries with a free day at the museum full of fun to inspire your own young creators!
This is a free event. Registration is not required but encouraged.
Questions? Contact education@taftmuseum.org.
Members' Luncheon | Memories & Inspiration
On-Site Program
Wednesday, March 15
11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at the Taft Museum of Art? Join us to find out. This members-only luncheon is a unique Q&A opportunity to connect with President/CEO Rebekah Beaulieu and other museum experts involved in our recent special exhibitions.
$15 Taft members. Includes a boxed lunch and museum admission.
Signature Talk | Inspiring Community Through Art
On-Site Program
Thursday, March 16
6–7 p.m.
Meet Kerry and C. Betty Davis, the collectors behind the exhibition Memories & Inspiration: The Kerry and C. Betty Davis Collection of African American Art. This talk will provide insight into what inspires their passions for art and for preserving cultural memory. Event admission includes the opportunity for attendees to view the special exhibition.
Speakers: Kerry and C. Betty Davis, moderated by Louise Taft Semple President/CEO Rebekah Beaulieu
Free for Taft members; $5 for non-members.
Questions? Please contact education@taftmuseum.org.
Supported by the Stanley and Frances D. Cohen Lecture Series
Moe Brooker, Listen with your eyes, detail, 2005, mixed media on board. Photo by Greg Staley, © Moe Brooker
Drop-In Public Tours | Memories & Inspiration
On-Site Program
Every Saturday
1:30–2:15 p.m.
Memories & Inspiration: The Kerry and C. Betty Davis Collection of African American Art is organized and toured by International Arts & Artists, Washington, DC
Exhibition Sponsors
The P&G Fund of The Greater Cincinnati Foundation
The Sutphin Family Foundation
Exhibition Support Generously Provided by
Ellen and George Rieveschl Endowment
Warrington Exhibition Endowment
Chellgren Family Endowment
Sallie Robinson Wadsworth Endowment for Exhibitions
Presenting Media Sponsor
