Member Hour – Memories & Inspiration: The Kerry and C. Betty Davis Collection of African American Art

Painting of people sitting in a cafe — Michael Ellison, *Mickey Dees*, 1987, woodcut. Photograph by Reis Birdwhistell. ©Michael Ellison

Event Series (See All)

Aug 08, 2025

9:00 am – 10:00 am

Join Kerry and Betty Davis for a special guided tour of their collection, Memories & Inspiration: The Kerry and C. Betty Davis Collection of African American Art.

This extraordinary exhibition presents 67 selected works from a body of art amassed over 35 years. Kerry, a retired mailman, and Betty, a former television news producer, gladly gave up many ordinary comforts in order to live with extraordinary paintings, drawings, prints, and sculptures as their principal luxuries.

The Davises built one of the richest private collections of African American art in the world. This traveling exhibition is their way of sharing some of its highlights with art lovers outside of their home in Atlanta.

We will gather in the Atrium by Visitor Services before going up to the galleries together.

Reminder: Members are encouraged to bring up to two paying guests with them to each Member Hour.

Registration requested.

Members: Free
Member Guests: $10

Not a Member? You can join today for a variety of benefits such as free admission to ticketed exhibitions like this one and free admission to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond, to name just a few. Click here to learn more!

About the Collection

Kerry Davis, a native of Atlanta, Georgia, is a former sergeant of the United States Air Force, a retired carrier with the United States Postal Service, and an ordained deacon. He began collecting in the mid-1980s in partnership with his wife, Betty, who shared his passion for art. Begun originally with the modest aim of enhancing the interior decor of their mid-century split-level home in suburban Atlanta, the Davis’s collection has grown to over 300 works by some of the most distinguished African American artists of the twentieth century.

Inspired by previous generations of African American art collectors, who understood the importance of preserving cultural expression, memory, and imagery, Davis has sought to contribute to this legacy and be a source of inspiration for others in the community. The Davis residence—dubbed an “In-Home Museum” by visiting neighbors, parishioners, and friends—serves as a meeting place and cultural hub for artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts. Kerry and Betty have two children and one granddaughter.

About International Arts & Artists

International Arts & Artists in Washington, DC, is a nonprofit arts service organization dedicated to increasing cross-cultural understanding and exposure to the arts internationally, through exhibitions, programs and services to artists, arts institutions and the public.

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This special Member Hour is generously sponsored in part by Fire Station One, TXTUR, and Stock Bistro and Bar.