Two of Dayton's Well Known Artists

The African American Visual Artists Guild (AAVAG) was started in 1992 by two local artists; Curtis Barnes Sr., and Willis “Bing” Davis.  These aspiring artists envisioned a place where all emerging African American artists could come together and share their passion, ideas, and creativity for the Arts.  In the late 80’s and the early 90’s, showcasing the work of artists, especially African American artists, were under-recognized by contemporary galleries and museums through out the world.  Mr. Barnes and Mr. Davis felt that is was vital to create an organization that would keep the dreams and passion for the arts alive.
Our emphasis have been placed on visual exploration featuring contemporary art, traditional fine art, paintings, crafts, photography, sculptures, and other types of visual art.

Black Art In America (BAIA) Call for Artists

Over the course of last 5 years, Buyblackart.com has sold and paid out millions of dollars in art commissions. Meanwhile, our customer base of collectors looking for exceptional work continues to grow year after year. If you think your artwork is unique and would make a good fit for our gallery or our online platform, and you’re looking for a dynamic gallery & arts company to partner with, this is our call for artists. Apply by sending us an email to: info@baiaonline.com with "Artist Submission" in the subject line. In this email, please include the following:

• A personal website link of your artwork
• Seven JPGs of your artwork which you feel demonstrate your best work
• Please include titles, medium, dimensions, year created, framed or unframed retail prices of any attached images.
• A short artist's bio and artist resume, including your current location.

Submissions that do not include the above requirements will not be considered. Please also note that we do not, under any circumstances, grant in-person appointments unless images have been reviewed and found to be of interest to the gallery. Due to the high-volume of artist submissions we receive, there may be a small delay before someone is able to respond to your email, but we're very interested in your talent. Once you have completed the submission process, please do not call for status. If we feel your work is a good fit for our online store or for a future show with the gallery, we will be in contact with you. Know someone who'd be excited by this news? Share it with them.

Our Mentoring Program

Our programming consists of an education component, exhibition component and communication component. The education component provides resources to the community as well as AAVAG members, such as workshops, open studio drawing and painting, mentoring, presentations, seminars, lectures, demonstrations and technical assistance. The exhibition component maintains a continuous rotating gallery for AAVAG members, is involved in curating "special exhibits" and receptions, for artists and organizations. We also offer group exhibits to other organizations, area colleges, institutions and private corporations. The communication component is involved with public relations and the publication of a monthly newsletter for our members and patrons. If you or someone you know would like to be mentored on any category of visual art, contact us. We have professional artist and art educators within our organization.

Voluntary Critiques

During our monthly membership meetings, members are encouraged to bring their works-in-progress to share with other members. Members have a choice to participate in a critique of their work or not have a critique. We encourage members to participate in the critique. There are a lot of experienced and professional artists at the meetings that share their techniques and advice. A non-enforceable fine of $1 is levied agains members that do not bring art for show.