The September 2024 meeting is available as a recording – check it out below.

Davis, born into a family deeply immersed in artistic and community pursuits, draws profound inspiration from his upbringing, guided by two accomplished multidisciplinary artists who founded a nondenominational church in the vibrant borough of Brooklyn. Growing up surrounded by the creative energy of his parents’ church, Davis developed an early fascination with the transformative power of art. At the tender age of six, he embarked on his musical journey with the drums, his first drumstick a cherished token from his childhood church, symbolizing the beginning of his artistic odyssey.

As Davis transitioned into adulthood, he discovered a new avenue for creative expression through photography, initially exploring this medium with the convenience of his iPhone and sharing his captures on social media. His passion for photography blossomed into a commitment to street photography, navigating the diverse landscapes of New York City and honing his ability to seamlessly blend into any environment, camera in hand. However, it was his move to Los Angeles at the age of 21 to pursue a career in education that marked a significant turning point in his artistic evolution.

In Los Angeles, Davis deepened his engagement with photography, cultivating a disciplined approach to his craft. He dedicated himself to capturing the narratives of Black Americans and the burgeoning creative communities that shaped the city’s cultural landscape. It was during this period that Davis discovered the historic wet plate collodion process, a photographic technique dating back to the 19th century, known for its distinctive aesthetic and the emotional depth it brings to portraiture. This discovery became a catalyst for Davis, inspiring him to create evocative tintype portraits that resonate with a sense of history and authenticity.

Now based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Davis continues to refine and expand his artistic practice through Black Magic, a visionary project dedicated to creating the largest contemporary archive of Black American and Global African Diasporic tintype portraits. Through Black Magic, Davis seeks to celebrate and preserve the cultural richness and diversity of his community, while also challenging conventional narratives and stereotypes through the power of visual storytelling.

Davis’ journey as an artist is a testament to his unwavering dedication to uplift and empower through creativity. His work not only documents cultural narratives but also serves as a catalyst for social change, inspiring others to reclaim and celebrate their own stories. Through Black Magic, Davis demonstrates how artistic expression can foster community resilience and empowerment, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of contemporary photography.

In this presentation, Davis sheds light on how this project came to be, its progress, how to deepen your relationship with collaborative practices, and the importance of bringing Black stories to the forefront of the fine art world.