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• CALL FOR ART: When Rabbits Fly DSA Fundraiser

  • Start
    16 May 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM
  • End
    24 Jun 2026
  •  
    11:59 PM
  • Location
    118 N Jefferson Street Dayton, Ohio. 45402
  • Spaces left
    92
  • Registered
    28 registrants

  Register

  Call for Art: The Dayton Society of Artists Fundraiser

  PLEASE NOTE THIS EXHIBITION WILL BE HOSTED at 118 N JEFFERSON FOR ONE NIGHT.

  CALL FOR ART

  WHEN RABBITS FLY

  The Dayton Society of Artists is pleased to present When Rabbits Fly, a one-night fundraising exhibition and community art event taking place on Saturday, June 27, 2026.

  This special event brings together exhibiting artists, live painting, figure drawing, recorded artist interviews, music, and community engagement in support of the Dayton Society of Artists and its ongoing programming.

  Artists working in all media are encouraged to apply. Selected works will be exhibited during the event, and all artwork must be available for purchase. Artwork purchased during the event will leave with collectors that evening.

  When Rabbits Fly embraces energy, experimentation, participation, and community connection. In addition to submitting artwork, artists will have the opportunity to participate in live painting, figure drawing sessions, recorded artist interviews, and additional volunteer opportunities connected to the event.

  Artist interviews will be recorded in advance at the DSA and presented during the event.

  Participation opportunities will play an important role in the exhibition selection process.

  SUBMITTING ARTWORK

  Artists may submit up to three artworks for consideration.

  ENTRY IS FREE

  Open to all artists working in all media

  Artwork must be for sale

  No size restrictions within reason

  Artwork must be professionally presented and ready to install

  Selected artists will be notified by email

  Submissions will include optional participation checkboxes for:

  Live Painting

  Swag bag donation of stickers, magnets, business cards, etc.

  Figure Drawing Participation

  Recorded Artist Interview

  Volunteer Opportunities During the Event

  Questions may be directed to:

  director@daytondsa.org

  CALENDAR

  Submission Deadline

  Tuesday, June 23, 2026 by 11:00 PM (EST)

  Artist Notifications

  Thursday, June 25, 2026

  Artwork Drop-Off

  Friday, June 26, 2026

  (Time TBD)

  Event Date

  Saturday, June 27, 2026

  SALES & COMMISSION

  All artwork included in When Rabbits Fly must be available for purchase.

  PLEASE NOTE:

  The Dayton Society of Artists will retain a 30% commission on all artwork sales during this event fundraiser. This commission is higher than the DSA’s standard exhibition commission structure and directly supports DSA programming, exhibitions, and operations. Artists should price work accordingly.

  Artwork purchased during the event will leave with collectors that evening.

  EXHIBITION SELECTION

  Artwork will be selected by the DSA Exhibition Committee.

  In addition to the submitted artwork, the committee will also consider artist interest in participation opportunities connected to the event.

  AGREEMENT TO PARTICIPATE
  

  Submitting artwork indicates agreement with the conditions outlined in this call for art and permission for the DSA to use submitted images, interview recordings, and event documentation for promotional and marketing purposes related to the exhibition and event.

  
  

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• 3rd Saturday Nude Figure Drawing Session

  • When
    20 Jun 2026
  •  
    9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
  • Location
    Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton 45403
  • Spaces left
    4

  Register

  3rd Saturday Nude Figure Drawing at DSA
  

  Looking to sharpen your skills or try something new? Join us for Nude Figure Drawing on the 3rd Saturday of the month!

  When: 9:30–11:30 AM
  Cost: $10(member) $20(non-member)
  What to Bring: Your own supplies (pencils, charcoal, paper, etc.)

  Relax, draw, and connect with a community of creatives in a welcoming and judgment-free environment. Free street parking is available, or you can park in the lot across the street.

  Whether you're a seasoned artist or just getting started, this is the perfect opportunity to flex those drawing muscles!

  We can’t wait to see your work in action—see you there! ️

  Cost: 
  Non-Members - $20
  Members - $10

  Space is Limited.  Pre-register to secure your spot.

  Location:
  Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton 45403

  Date & Time: 
  Sat. June 20.  9:30-11:30AM

  DSA Cancelation Policy

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• Plein Air Meetup

  • When
    20 Jun 2026
  •  
    11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
  • Location
    Deeds Park

  Register

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Plein Air Meetup: Skyline & Snacks at Deeds Point
  

  Join the Dayton Society of Artists for a free, informal plein air meetup at Deeds Point MetroPark hosted by Paul “Hitch” Lyons.

  This relaxed outdoor gathering is open to anyone looking to get out of the studio and paint alongside fellow artists while taking in views of the Dayton skyline and the Great Miami River. Whether you work in watercolor, acrylic, oil, pastel, sketching, or mixed media, all experience levels are welcome.

  This is a zero-pressure creative meetup focused on community, conversation, and painting outdoors. Snacks and water will be provided, but participants are responsible for bringing their own art supplies and portable setup.

  Date & Time:
  Saturday, June 20, 2026
  11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

  Location:
  Deeds Point MetroPark
  510 Webster St.
  Dayton, OH 45402

  Cost:
  Free

  What to Bring:
  Portable easel or setup, paints, brushes, sketchbooks, drawing materials, and a chair if desired. No supplies will be provided on-site.

  Hosted by:
  Paul “Hitch” Lyons and the Dayton Society of Artists

  Come out, grab a snack, and paint the town.

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• Robert Henri Master Copy Workshop

  • When
    27 Jun 2026
  •  
    1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
  • Location
    Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton 45403

  Register

  
  

  Robert Master Copy Workshop
  

  Join the Dayton Society of Artists for a master copy workshop led by special guest instructor Terri Hamlin and DSA Historian Kathleen Caffrey. This session will explore the techniques, composition, and artistic decisions behind a selected artwork through a guided drawing and painting exercise, accompanied by historical insights into the artist and the context surrounding the work.
  

  Master copying has long been an important tool for artists seeking to strengthen their observational skills and deepen their understanding of artistic technique. Participants will work from a reproduction of a selected artwork while analyzing its structure, value relationships, color, and compositional design. Terri Hamlin will guide participants through the artistic process, offering insight into the technical and creative choices that make the work successful, while Kathleen Caffrey will provide historical context and discussion of the artist's life, influences, and place within art history.

  PLEASE BRING SKETCHBOOK AND PREFERRED MEDIUM. LIMITED SUPPLIES ARE AVAILABLE.

  Date and Time
  Saturday June 27, 2026
  1:00–3:00 PM

  Location
  Dayton Society of Artists
  48 High Street
  Dayton, OH 45403

  Cost
  Free for Members
  $10 for Non-Members

  About the Workshop
  Participants will:
  • Work from a reproduction of a Robert Henri painting.

  This workshop is open to all experience levels.

  Show details
• When Rabbits Fly, DSA Fundraiser

  • When
    27 Jun 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    118 North Jefferson, Dayton, OH

  Register

  

  
  

  WHEN RABBITS FLY

  A Special Exhibition & Benefit Event for the Dayton Society of Artists

  Join the Dayton Society of Artists for When Rabbits Fly, a one-night-only exhibition and celebration of artists, creativity, and community on Saturday, June 27, 2026 at 118 N Jefferson Street in downtown Dayton.

  The evening will feature artwork by local and regional artists alongside live figure drawing, collaborative painting, artist interviews, auctions, music, and live art-making throughout the evening.

  All artwork included in the exhibition will be available for purchase, with 70% of proceeds going directly to the participating artists.

  Music throughout the evening will be provided by DJ Kimyon of Future Is Now X.

  Rodney Veal will serve as emcee for the evening, with keynote remarks by Commissioner Mary McDonald.

  Guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres and desserts by Sama’s Sweet Kitchen, a cash bar, swag bags, and an evening filled with artwork, music, and conversation.

  FEATURED LIVE FIGURE ARTISTS

  • Erin Smith Glenn
  • Jimi Jones
  • Greg Dearth
  • Figurative works created during the evening will be auctioned in support of the Dayton Society of Artists.

  EXQUISITE CORPSE COLLABORATION

  Featuring:

  • Ariel White
  • Bil Tipton
  • Marco Vera

  Collaborative works created during the evening will be auctioned in support of the Dayton Society of Artists.

  EVENT FEATURES

  • Exhibition of local and regional artwork
  • Silent Auction
  • Live Auction
  • Live Figure Drawing
  • Collaborative Painting
  • Recorded Artist Interviews
  • DJ + Music Throughout the Evening
  • Swag Bags

  TICKETS

  $45 General Admission

  FOOD & DRINK

  • Hors d’oeuvres and desserts by Sama’s Sweet Kitchen
  • Cash Bar Available

  PARKING

  Nearby parking available at:

  124 E 2nd Street
  $3 Flat Rate Parking

  SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

  Sponsorship opportunities are available for individuals, businesses, and organizations interested in supporting the Dayton Society of Artists.

  For sponsorship information:
  director@daytondsa.org

  EVENT DETAILS

  Saturday, June 27, 2026
  6:00–9:00 PM

  118 N Jefferson Street
  Dayton, Ohio

  Proceeds from the evening support Dayton Society of Artists exhibitions, artist opportunities, and community programming.

  
  

  
  

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• Intro to Urban Sketching

  • When
    28 Jun 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton 45403
  • Spaces left
    16

  Register

  
  

  Introduction to Urban Sketching with Chris Riegel
  

  Curious about urban sketching but not sure where to start? Join the Dayton Society of Artists for a welcoming beginner-friendly workshop designed to introduce the basics of sketching on location.

  Whether you’re brand new to urban sketching or simply looking to loosen up your creative practice, this workshop will cover simple supplies to bring, what to expect during a sketch outing, and tips for building confidence while drawing in public spaces. Participants will enjoy a short hands-on sketch session, time for questions and answers, and a fun “throwdown” to share sketches together in the spirit of the urban sketching community.

  PLEASE BRING A SKETCHBOOK, PENCILS, OR YOUR PREFERRED DRAWING MATERIALS.

  Date & Time

  Sunday, June 28, 2026

  10:00 AM–12:00 PM

  Location

  Dayton Society of Artists

  48 High Street

  Dayton, OH 45403

  
  

  About the Instructor

  Chris Riegel is a retired math teacher who discovered urban sketching after deciding she was tired of looking at other artists’ work and thinking, “I can’t even draw a stick figure.” What began as a personal challenge quickly became a creative passion. Chris enjoys encouraging beginners to let go of perfection, pick up a pen, and simply start sketching. Her workshops focus on making urban sketching approachable, fun, and welcoming for anyone curious about drawing their world one sketch at a time.

  This workshop is open to all experience levels.

  Show details
• Pencils and Prompts: Drawing Basics

  • When
    28 Jun 2026
  •  
    12:45 PM - 2:00 PM
  • Location
    Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton 45403

  Register

  
  

  Pencil and Prompts: Drawing Basics

  Sharpen up your sketching skills with a local artist providing you insights and inspirations into the world of drawing. Basic drawing materials provided. Guests are welcome to bring their own graphite drawing materials if desired. No drawing experience necessary. Each session provides insights on a different theme or drawing technique. Experimentation is strongly encouraged.

  Cost: 
  Non-Members - $35
  Members - $20

  Pre-registration required 

  Location:
  Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton 45403

  Class Prompt: 
  
  

  Date & Time: 
  

  Sun. June 28, 12:45-2PM

  About your Instructor: 
  Matthew Burgy is a multidisciplinary artist specializing in sculpture and painting, with years of experience organizing and leading art workshops. An active member of the local artist community, Matthew’s work explores movement, form, and expression through kinetic sculptures, jewelry, and paintings. Matthew continuously collaborates with organizations such as Culture Works to engage the community through his artistic process. He is a proud member of the Front Street artist community, where he creates, exhibits, and sells his work from his studio (#3345) on the third floor of Building 100’s BC entrance. 

  DSA Cancelation Policy

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• Sketcher Social Session: Advanced Drawing

  • When
    28 Jun 2026
  •  
    2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
  • Location
    48 High Street, Dayton 45403

  Register

  
  

  Sketcher Social Session: Advanced Drawing

  Join in the fun with fellow sketching enthusiasts for an in-depth experience with drawing. Each session provides basic graphite materials and bringing your own advanced dry mediums (charcoal, chalk, colored pencil, etc.) is encouraged. Each session also includes a time for friendly drawing critique and discussion moderated by a local artist of any work made during the session or of a recent drawing that you would like feedback on. Experimentation and imaginative exploration of topics discussed is strongly encouraged! Each month has a different theme and guests are encouraged to collaborate on future themes as desired.

  Cost: 
  Non-Members - $40
  Members - $25

  Pre-registration Required

  Location:
  Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton 45403

  Date & Time: 
  

  Sun. June 28, 2:30-4:30PM

  About your Instructor: 
  Matthew Burgy is a multidisciplinary artist specializing in sculpture and painting, with years of experience organizing and leading art workshops. An active member of the local artist community, Matthew’s work explores movement, form, and expression through kinetic sculptures, jewelry, and paintings. Matthew continuously collaborates with organizations such as Culture Works to engage the community through his artistic process. He is a proud member of the Front Street artist community, where he creates, exhibits, and sells his work from his studio (#3345) on the third floor of Building 100’s BC entrance. 

  DSA Cancelation Policy

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• Dayton Society of Artists: Art Book Club

  • When
    9 Jul 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

  Register

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Dayton Society of Artists Book Club
  

  The Art Spirit by Robert Henri 

  The Dayton Society of Artists continues its Book Club series, bringing artists, historians, and community members together for thoughtful conversation and shared learning.
  

  Our next selection, The Art Spirit by Robert Henri, is one of the most influential books ever written on art and creativity. Compiled from Henri’s lectures, letters, and teachings, the book offers a powerful reflection on the role of the artist in society and the importance of living a creative, authentic life. More than a technical manual, The Art Spirit challenges readers to think deeply about observation, individuality, courage, and the pursuit of meaningful artistic expression.

  A leading figure of the Ashcan School and one of America's most respected art teachers, Robert Henri encouraged artists to engage fully with the world around them and to create work that reflected personal experience rather than convention. His ideas influenced generations of artists and continue to resonate with creatives across disciplines today.

  This discussion will be led by Kathleen Caffrey, Dayton Society of Artists board member and Historian. With her deep knowledge of art history and passion for lifelong learning, Kathleen will guide participants through an engaging conversation exploring Henri's philosophy, his impact on American art, and the enduring relevance of The Art Spirit for artists and non-artists alike.

  Whether you are an artist, an art history enthusiast, or simply enjoy engaging dialogue, we invite you to join us for this ongoing DSA program.

  Digital Copy of Book(free):  https://archive.org/details/artspirit0000henr/mode/2up 

  Free and open to the public.

  Show details
• Instructed Nude Figure Drawing, Instructor: Greg Dearth

  • When
    11 Jul 2026
  •  
    9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    48 High Street, Dayton 45403
  • Spaces left
    14

  Register

  
  

  Instructed Nude Figure Drawing

  Instructor: Greg Dearth

  Join us for a focused and immersive experience in academic figure drawing. This instructed nude figure drawing session offers artists the opportunity to deepen their understanding of anatomy, proportion, gesture, and light through guided study from a live nude model.

  Led by Greg Dearth, each session includes structured instruction, demonstrations, and individualized feedback. Artists will work through a range of timed poses designed to strengthen observational skills and refine technique in a serious, supportive studio environment.

  Participants are asked to bring their own drawing materials. Suggested supplies are listed below, but artists are welcome to work in the dry medium of their choice. Please bring any drawing board, easel, or preferred paper needed for your practice.

  Time will also be dedicated to thoughtful critique and discussion, allowing space for experimentation, technical growth, and meaningful artistic exchange.

  Come ready to observe closely, draw confidently, and engage deeply in the enduring tradition of figure study.

  Cost: 
  

  Members:  $20

  Non Members:  $30

  Pre-registration Required by July 4, 2026

  Suggested Supply List

  Supplies are not included. Please bring what you prefer to work with.

  1 – 18" x 24" drawing pad

  (Strathmore 400 Series recommended)

  1 – 18" x 24" newsprint pad

  A couple of HB drawing pencils

  One 2B pencil

  One or two medium charcoal pencils

  1 kneaded eraser

  Drawing board large enough to accommodate 18" x 24" pads

  A couple of binder clips

  Small utility knife for sharpening pencils

  Small pad or piece of sandpaper

  Location:
  Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton 45403

  Date & Time: 
  Saturday, June 6.  930AM-12PM

  
  

  About your Instructor: 
  Greg Dearth is a native of Dayton, Ohio and an Art graduate of Ohio University. As a nationally known illustrator his work has appeared in books, in museums, on products and in ads for many Fortune 500 companies. Over the years portrait painting and figure drawing has become his special focus. He has taught at Rosewood Art Center in Kettering and the Dayton Art Institute as well as various independent workshops. He has also Demonstrated and been guest speaker at the Cincinnati Art Club, Dayton Society of Artists, CCAD in Columbus and The Portfolio Center in Atlanta.
  

    “Figure drawing" is challenging but can also be very artistically fulfilling. There may not be any rules in Art, but there are certain methods that can be taught to produce desired results. I hope everyone attending this workshop will both have some fun and take home some new skills to use in their future work!”

  DSA Cancelation Policy

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• Mosaic Flower Pots

  • When
    11 Jul 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    Cosmo Joe's Atomic Lounge, 121 N Ludlow Street
  • Spaces left
    26

  Register

  
  

  Mosaic Flower Pots with Jes McMillian

  Transform an ordinary flower pot into a colorful mosaic work of art in this hands-on workshop led by artist Jes McMillian. Participants will learn the basics of mosaic design and construction while creating their own decorative flower pot using a variety of materials and techniques.

  Whether you're new to mosaics or looking for a creative evening with fellow makers, this workshop offers a welcoming environment to explore color, pattern, and design. Jes McMillian's community-centered approach encourages experimentation and creativity, making this an enjoyable experience for artists and beginners alike.

  All materials are provided, and each participant will receive a plant to take home in their newly created mosaic flower pot. Due to curing and finishing time, completed pots will be available for pickup following the workshop.

  Specialty cocktails and mocktails will be available for purchase from Cosmo Joe's Atomic Lounge throughout the evening.

  THIS WORKSHOP WILL BE HELD AT COSMO JOE'S ATOMIC LOUNGE(121 N Ludlow Street Dayton, OH. 45402).
  

  Space is limited.  Secure your spot today.

  Cost:
  $40 per participant

  Pre-registration Required

  Location:
  Cosmo Joe's Atomic Lounge
  121 N Ludlow St.
  Dayton, OH 45402

  Date & Time:
  Saturday, July 11, 2026
  6:00–9:00 PM

  Flower Pot Pickup:
  Dayton Society of Artists
  48 High Street
  Dayton, OH 45403

  Friday, July 17, 2026 | 4:00–8:00 PM
  Saturday, July 18, 2026 | 12:00–5:00 PM

  About Your Instructor:

  Jes McMillian is the Founder and Executive Director of the Mosaic Institute, an organization dedicated to advancing mosaic art through education, community engagement, and creative placemaking. Through her work, she has helped bring mosaic art to diverse audiences, creating opportunities for people of all ages and experience levels to connect through hands-on artistic experiences.

  Known for her community-centered approach to teaching, Jes encourages creativity, experimentation, and collaboration while making mosaic techniques accessible to beginners and experienced artists alike. Her workshops emphasize the joy of creating, the value of craftsmanship, and the power of art to bring people together.

  DSA Cancelation Policy

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