By Javar Juarez (CUBNSC) - Columbia, South Carolina, long known for its rich history and cultural undercurrents, is quietly becoming a beacon for Black creatives, despite challenges like the whitewashing of the city's artistic spaces. At the heart of this renaissance is Corey Davis, a veteran animator and the visionary behind Roc Bottom Studios. With the studio’s public opening on the horizon, Davis shared a glimpse into the space's promising future, offering us an exclusive tour and interview.
The studio buzzes with energy, showcasing art across mediums—paint on canvas, digital animation, and even 3D creations—crafted by Black male creatives. As we walked through the space, the atmosphere was a symphony of neo-soul and hip-hop, setting a soulful, nostalgic tone. Witnessing live painting sessions brought a spiritual and emotive dimension to the visit, underscoring Roc Bottom Studios as more than just a creative hub—it's a sanctuary.
Roc Bottom Studios: A Vision Rooted in Collaboration
Corey Davis sees Roc Bottom Studios as more than a workspace. It’s a springboard for community-building and collaboration. “We’re establishing a regional distribution company for independent comic book creators from North Carolina to Georgia,” Davis explained. “It’s about slow, sustainable growth and giving opportunities to those trying to get their start.”
The space will house an animation studio, cooperative print shop, art gallery, and creative collaboration zone. Davis emphasized the importance of creating a platform for Black artists to thrive locally and globally, bridging the gap between established creators and those just starting out.
“Collaboration is the glue that holds a community together,” Davis noted. “This isn’t just about individual projects. It’s about building a network of artists—some established, others emerging—who can learn from and uplift one another.”
Representation Through Art
The conversation shifted to the need for greater representation in the arts, particularly for Black creatives. Davis shared the origin story of Jetboy, one of Roc Bottom Studios' flagship characters.
“Jetboy was born out of the lack of representation in comics. As a kid, I didn’t see superheroes who looked like me,” Davis said. “It’s not just about seeing yourself on the page—it’s about knowing that your identity matters and imagining a world where you’re the hero.”
Jetboy, a mix of Davis’s childhood personality and his son’s, represents a new wave of storytelling that centers Black experiences. “Representation matters, and it’s something we’re addressing head-on at Roc Bottom Studios.”
The Politics of Black Art
Davis also spoke candidly about the political undertones of Black art and the systemic barriers it faces. “Conservatives often view Black art as political because our stories and struggles are inherently powerful. Our characters and creations are protests in their own right,” he said.
Yet, Davis believes that Black art has global potential and influence. “Black culture isn’t a niche; it’s a movement. The key is showing our range—animation, writing, painting—and not letting anyone box us into a single genre or narrative.”
Building a Legacy
Roc Bottom Studios is more than a creative space—it’s a movement to reclaim and redefine how Black art is produced and presented. Davis envisions it as a hub where Black artists can connect, collaborate, and thrive without the limitations imposed by traditional institutions.
As Columbia begins to shed its reputation as “the town that time forgot,” Roc Bottom Studios stands as a beacon for progress, innovation, and representation. With Davis at the helm, the studio is poised to lead a cultural shift that celebrates the depth and diversity of Black artistry.
For those eager to see what the future holds, Roc Bottom Studios promises not just a sneak peek into Black creativity but an invitation to be part of its groundbreaking journey. As Davis aptly put it, “We’re building something that’s not just for us—it’s for everyone who believes in the power of art to change the world.”
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