The Hallie Ford Museum of Art presents the one-of-a-kind traveling exhibition of Memories & Inspiration: The Kerry and C. Betty Davis Collection of African American Art, happening September 27 through December 20, 2025. Ideal for history enthusiasts, art lovers, or anyone looking to learn about the commitment of an ordinary couple who spent more than 35 years as devoted collectors and connoisseurs, the exhibit features 62 superb examples of modern and contemporary African American art.

Kerry and C. Betty Davis of Atlanta, Georgia, built a stunning collection that is remarkably personal and reflective of African American art of the last 100 years. Kerry, a retired postal worker, and Betty, a former television news producer, gladly gave up many ordinary comforts to live with extraordinary paintings, sculptures, prints, and drawings as their principal luxuries in their modest home. Their collection includes work by Romare Bearden, Elizabeth Catlett, Sam Gilliam, Jacob Lawrence, Samella Lewis, and Charles White, but the Davises did not search exclusively for well-known or documented artists.

John Olbrantz, the Maribeth Collins Director of the Hallie Ford Museum of Art, said, “The Davis collection is one of the finest collections of its kind in the United States and presents a rare opportunity for audiences.”

Organized and toured by International Arts & Artists, Washington, D.C., the exhibit brings light to artists whose work is rich and eclectic in a variety of mediums. Gathered piece by piece with great attention to detail, Kerry and Betty took time to look for deeper meanings in the artwork they acquired. Whether it was cultural, historical, social, or personal in meaning, each item embodies the Davises’ diverse tastes, interests, and passions. The result is a collection that’s powerful, distinguished, and meaningful.

In conjunction with this special event, additional educational programming is being offered. On Saturday, September 27th, beginning at 5:00 p.m. in the Paulus Lecture Hall in the Willamette University College of Law, visitors are invited to listen to John Olbrantz talk with collectors Kerry and Betty Davis about the history and development of their collection.

On September 30th at 12:30 p.m. at the Hallie Ford Museum of Art, the Davises will lead a personalized walking tour of the exhibition. In addition, Dr. Amalia Amaki, an independent artist, researcher, writer, curator, and lecturer, will offer a walking tour of the exhibit on November 4th at 12:30 p.m. at the Hallie Ford Museum of Art, as well as an illustrated lecture on the history of modern and contemporary African American art on Thursday, November 6 at 7:30 pm in the Paulus Lecture Hall in the Willamette University College of Law. Admission to the conversation, lecture, and both gallery talks is free.

When asked why he and Betty began to acquire African American art so many years ago and why they continue to collect, Kerry Davis summed it up best when he stated, "Our goal is to preserve cultural memories and provide the community with a source of inspiration." 

Plan your memorable visit to the Hallie Ford Museum of Art, located at 700 State Street in downtown Salem near the campus of Willamette University. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 12 noon to 5 p.m. The galleries are closed on Sunday and Monday. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for seniors (55+). Children and students (0-17) and students (18+ with ID) are admitted for free, and Tuesday is a free day.