An exhibit gallery and reception was held March 9th for Al Davis, retiring BC art professor, in the Wylie & May Louise gallery at BC.

Many of his fellow colleagues, students and friends attended the celebration in honor of his retirement.

Alice Goodman, a former Davis student from 20 years ago, attended the celebration and said Davis’ work is very original.

Goodman said she loves the way he handles color. Even after 20 years, she has implemented his techniques into her own paintings.

Not only did his former students attend but his friends did as well.

Steve Langjahr has known Davis since grade school. Although after college they drifted apart, Langjahr drove from San Bernardino to acknowledge a career like that of Davis. “It is a special day, and it’s a pleasure to be a part of the celebration,” Langjahr said.

Greg Goodwin, a BC retired history teacher, said he has always been impressed with Davis’ work. “He has a lot of talent and a lot of variety,” Goodwin said.

Davis attended San Bernardino Community College and earned a scholarship to the Otis Art Institute in Los Angeles.

He received two degrees, a bachelor’s in fine arts and a master’s in fine arts. Davis began his teaching career at BC in 1971, 35 years ago at the age of 22.

Over his 35 years as a BC professor, Davis has stimulated and inspired students to think up their own style of composition.

He has provided students with the right tools and skills needed in order to become a successful artist.

Mark Calderon was a former Davis student 31 years ago. Calderon took many of Davis’ art classes.

He graduated from BC attended San Jose State and pursued a career in art.

Calderon is currently an artist/sculptor in Seattle, Wash., and attributes his ability to create freely to Davis’ teachings.

“He created an environment where you felt free to create. His art work is such a free form of expression,” Calderon said.

A celebration of Davis’ career as an instructor and artist will be on display at the BC gallery through April 8.

The exhibit features a large number of Davis’ paintings in watercolor and acrylic.

“The series contains a mix of a span of 20 years, beginning from the ’70s until now,” Davis said.

Davis’ current work represents three directions: the use of symbols, visual vocabulary and lastly textile surface texture of the canvas.

Davis’ retirement will become effective in May. After retirement, Davis says he plans on still teaching an art class part time.