Founded in 1938, the Dayton Society of Artists has supported and advocated for artists in the Dayton
region for more than eight decades. While the organization’s permanent collection remains housed at
its gallery and is not able to travel, its history continues to be carried forward through the artists, leadership, and creative practices that shape the organization today.
A central figure in this exhibition is David Smith, whose work and long-standing involvement with The
Dayton Society of Artists represent a vital bridge between past and present. In addition to his artistic
contributions and leadership, Smith played a key role in the organization’s growth, including his
involvement in the purchase of the Society’s current home at 48 High Street, helping to secure a
permanent space for artists and exhibitions in Dayton.
This exhibition focuses primarily on the present, featuring artwork by current and recent board
members alongside selected historical context. It is presented concurrently with a permanent collection
exhibition on view at The Dayton Society of Artists gallery from February 13 through March 7, 2026,
offering audiences two complementary perspectives on the organization’s history—one grounded in its
collection and one shaped by the artists who continue to lead and guide The Dayton Society of Artists
today.
