WELCH, WV – Nationally-known McDowell County raised artist John Davis visited Welch last Wednesday to visit the Jack Caffrey Arts and Cultural Center, inquiring about kicking off his 2020 list of art shows. 

Davis grew up in the Iaeger area in the 70’s, moved to the Carolinas in the early 80’s, and presently lives in Greenville, South Carolina area. 

Davis had stumbled upon a Facebook link to the Jack Caffrey Arts Center earlier this year and decided after being gone from the area for 40 some years it was a good time to revisit some old friends. He spent time with local and also nationally known artist Tom Acosta. 

“I visited Tommy’s studio in Kimball and was very impressed with the work he is doing,” said Davis. 

“My friends and I had an amazing lunch at the Ya’Sou Restaurant, who knew there was such great greek food in a town that small,” said Davis, while also praising owner and host Markella Gianato. 

John Davis is back in his studio now, working on his canvases partly inspired by his visit to the new Art Center. His works are finishing up the year at Gallery 245 in Gastonia, NC, a show that started in Chicago and traveled thoughout the mid west and back to Atlanta and  Charlotte. 

“I’m looking forward to being back in the Welch area sometime around February,” said Davis. “I will be accompanied by a couple friends with our unique style of art. The Jack Caffrey Arts Center it is an amazing place and y’all should be proud of it.”