ATLANTA, GA.- The first major traveling exhibition of works by Ulysses Davis in more than 25 years will premiere at the High Museum of Art this December. Davis was a barber in Savannah, Georgia, who was also a self-taught woodcarver of remarkable talent. He created a body of highly refined sculpture that expresses his humor, dignity and deep faith. The exhibition offers an opportunity for audiences to appreciate Davis’ remarkable work, which is rarely seen outside of Savannah.

“The Treasure of Ulysses Davis,” which was organized in collaboration with the King-Tisdell Cottage Foundation of Savannah, Georgia, will feature approximately 115 works drawn from both collections and select private lenders. It will be accompanied by the first significant catalogue dedicated to Ulysses Davis. Opening in Atlanta December 6, 2008, “The Treasure of Ulysses Davis” will remain on view through April 5, 2009, before traveling to the American Folk Art Museum in New York and other national venues to be announced.

“The High is deeply committed to folk and self-taught art. We are the only major museum in North America to have a curatorial department specifically devoted to the field,” said Michael E. Shapiro, Nancy and Holcombe T. Green, Jr. Director of the High Museum of Art. “We believe that Davis’ work is sure to excite visitors with its energy, whimsy and drama.”