Elva Davis

Elva Davis (1916- 2014)

Elva Davis began her artistic journey at the age of 60, bringing a lifetime of experience and passion to her work. Self-taught and versatile, she worked in oil, watercolor, and pen and ink; creating pieces that celebrated the beauty, history, and character of Southwestern Virginia.

Her art often featured local landmarks and historic sites, from the Giles County Courthouse and Mountain Lake Resort to Virginia Tech’s Burruss Hall and Solitude, Mabry Mill, the Cascades, the New River, and the region’s iconic covered bridges and farmlands. Early commissions included work for Hargrave Military Academy, Virginia Tech’s Dairy Science Department, and many private collectors, reflecting her ability to capture the spirit of both place and community.

Through local art and craft shows from Virginia Tech to Salem Civic Center, Mountain Lake, and Claytor Lake; her award winning work reached audiences across the U.S. and around the world. Committed to keeping her art accessible, Davis sought to share the joy she found in her surroundings, inviting others to experience the beauty and history of Virginia through her eyes.