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• Call for Art: From Campus to Community: a college student & recent graduate exhibition

  • Start
    12 Jul 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM
  • End
    31 Jul 2026
  •  
    12:00 AM
  • Location
    Front Street's Project Pit(door B/C in the basement) 1001 East Second Street
  • Spaces left
    116
  • Registered
    4 registrants

  Register

  
  

  PLEASE NOTE THIS EXHIBITION WILL BE HOSTED AT FRONT STREET'S PROJECT PIT(door B/C in the basement)

  Call for Art: From Campus to Community
  

  FROM CAMPUS TO COMMUNITY: The Dayton Society of Artists (DSA) is pleased to present From Campus to Community, a College Student & Recent Graduate Exhibition celebrating artists currently pursuing higher education and those who have graduated within the past three years.

  This exhibition provides an opportunity for current college students and recent graduates to present their work in a professional exhibition setting while connecting with Dayton's broader arts community. Working in all media, participating artists will share contemporary perspectives that reflect the next generation of creative voices.

  Whether exploring new ideas, refining technical skills, or building a professional practice, artists are encouraged to submit work that represents the strength and direction of their current studio practice.

  This exhibition is guest curated by Mikail Berger-Messenger, a Wright State University student and Dayton Society of Artists intern. Through From Campus to Community, Mikail seeks to create a platform that celebrates student and recent graduate artists while strengthening connections between higher education and the Dayton arts community.

  Entry is FREE and artists may submit up to three artworks.

  SUBMITTING ARTWORK

  Please submit your work via website submission by Thursday, July 30, 2026, by 11:00 PM (EST).

  Direct questions to: director@daytondsa.org

  CALENDAR

  Art Drop-Off: Tuesday, August 4, 2026, 4:00–8:00 PM

  Location:

  Front Street Project Pit (Door B/C – Basement)

  1001 East Second Street

  Dayton, Ohio 45402

  Entries Due By: Thursday, July 30, 2026, by 11:00 PM (EST)

  Notification of Acceptance By: Friday, July 31, 2026

  Exhibition Runs: August 7–25, 2026

  Opening Reception: Friday, August 7, 2026, 6:00–8:00 PM

  Additional Gallery Hours: To Be Announced

  Art Pick-Up: Tuesday, August 25, 4-8PM(or by appointment)

  REQUIREMENTS

  Open to current college students and recent graduates within the past three years.

  Artists working in all media are encouraged to apply.

  Artwork must be original and created by the submitting artist.

  Artists may submit up to three artworks.

  Image(s) submitted must be clear, focused on the work, and as professionally photographed as possible. Acceptable images may be taken with a smartphone.

  For tips on photographing and editing artwork using the Snapseed app, visit:

  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0g4a1Ge-Ds&t=321s

  2D artwork must be no larger than 48" (width) × 48" (height), including framing.

  3D artwork must fit on a pedestal with a footprint of 24" × 24" (or smaller) or be suitable for floor installation.

  Artwork must be professionally presented.

  2D artwork must be ready to hang with wire on the back. No sawtooth hangers.

  The DSA is open to alternative installation methods, but they must be pre-approved.

  Artwork must have been created within the past five years.

  Artwork must be labeled with the artist's name, title, medium, price (or NFS), and email address.

  Artwork may not be picked up before the close of the exhibition.

  Accepted work that differs significantly from the submitted image or suffers from poor presentation may be disqualified.

  ART DELIVERY

  Artists maintain responsibility for insuring their artwork during transportation and delivery. The Dayton Society of Artists will acknowledge receipt of work when it is physically received by DSA personnel.

  All accepted work must arrive ready for installation. Works that are not exhibition-ready or do not exhibit good craftsmanship may be omitted from the exhibition. Accepted work that differs significantly from the submitted images or suffers from poor presentation may be disqualified.

  All artwork must be hand-delivered to:

  Front Street Project Pit

  Door B/C (Basement)

  1001 East Second Street

  Dayton, Ohio 45402

  during the scheduled drop-off period unless prior arrangements have been approved.

  Exhibited work will remain on display for the duration of the exhibition.

  LIABILITY & SALES

  Artists are solely responsible for insuring their work during delivery, installation, the exhibition period, and pickup. The Dayton Society of Artists is not liable for loss or damage due to circumstances beyond its control.

  The Dayton Society of Artists will take no commission on artwork sales for this exhibition. Artists will receive 100% of all sales. Artists should price their work accordingly or designate artwork as Not for Sale.

  AGREEMENT TO PARTICIPATE

  Submitting artwork indicates that you agree to the conditions of entry and exhibition outlined in these guidelines and that you agree to make your work available should it be accepted for exhibition. The Dayton Society of Artists may use submitted images and exhibited artwork in print and digital marketing materials.

  
  

  Show details
• FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM: Opening Celebration

  • When
    31 Jul 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    118 N Jefferson Street Dayton, Ohio. 45402

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM — Edition 01
  

  Friday, July 31, 2026 | 12:00–9:00 PM

  Location: 118 N. Jefferson Street, Dayton, OH 45402

  Admission: Free and open to the public

  Join us for the opening day of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM – Edition 01, a full-day celebration of urban contemporary art, music, and creative culture presented by Future Is Now Experience in partnership with the Dayton Society of Artists.

  
  

  The day features a group exhibition led by featured artist CERN, live painting by Christian Dorsey, Rhonda Duncalf, Rylee Mays, Erin Smith Glenn, Tamiko Stump, and Marco Vera, along with music by Jacqueline Farrara, OCG, and special guests.

  
  

  The evening concludes with Ignite Salon: Inspiration in the Age of Social Media, a conversation exploring creativity, artistic practice, and the impact of digital platforms on contemporary culture.

  
  

  Whether you're an artist, collector, student, or simply curious about today's creative landscape, FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM offers an immersive day of art, music, and community in downtown Dayton.

  
  

  The Dayton presentation of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM is made possible through the support of an MCACD Special Projects Grant.

  
  

  Join us on Friday, July 31, from 12:00–9:00 PM at 118 N. Jefferson Street to experience the opening day of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM – Edition 01.

  
  

  Show details
• Panel Discussion: Inspiration in the Age of Social Media. Presented as part of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM

  • When
    31 Jul 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  • Location
    118 N Jefferson Street Dayton, Ohio. 45402

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Ignite Salon:  Inspiration in the Age of Social Media — Panel Discussion
  

  Friday, July 31, 2026 | 7:00 PM
  

  118 N. Jefferson Street
  Dayton, OH 45402

  Presented as part of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM, Ignite Salon: Inspiration in the Age of Social Media brings together artists and creative professionals for a conversation exploring the ways social media has shaped contemporary creative practice.

  Moderated by Debi Chess (DML), the panel features Max Watts, Sugar, 5TR8TCH, and CERN, who will share perspectives drawn from their experiences across music, visual art, and creative culture.

  Whether you're an artist, designer, musician, or simply interested in creativity in the digital age, this discussion offers an opportunity to hear from established voices working at the intersection of art, culture, and technology.

  Admission is free and open to the public.

  
  

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

  • When
    1 Aug 2026
  •  
    9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    48 High Street, Dayton 45403
  • Spaces left
    4

  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 31, 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, August 1.  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

  Show details
• FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM. EDITION 01

  • When
    1 Aug 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    118 N Jefferson Street Dayton, Ohio. 45402

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM – Edition 01

  Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 12:00–9:00 PM
  Location: 118 N. Jefferson Street, Dayton, OH 45402
  Admission: Free and open to the public

  Join us for the second day of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM – Edition 01, featuring a full day of contemporary art, live painting, music, thought-provoking discussion, and performance.

  Experience a group exhibition featuring internationally recognized artist CERN, alongside live painting by Al Díaz, Cayman Kane, Savonne Hagans, Emerson Kilburn, Jon Marten (Mr. Champagne), and Sama Faramarzi. Music throughout the day will be provided by Jacqueline Farrara, Sugar, and special guests.

  At 5:00 PM, join us for The Landscape of Urban Contemporary Art, a panel discussion moderated by Rodney Veal of ThinkTV featuring Al Díaz, co-creator of SAMO®, Mike Giant, artist and co-founder of REBEL8, and Kimyon Huggins, artist and founder of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM. Together, the panelists will explore the evolution of urban contemporary art and its influence on today's creative landscape.

  The evening concludes at 8:00 PM with PAROLA, a performance presented by Dayton Dance Initiative, bringing movement and contemporary performance into dialogue with the exhibition.

  The Dayton presentation of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM is made possible through the support of an MCACD Special Projects Grant.

  Join us on Saturday, August 1, for an inspiring day of art, music, conversation, and performance in downtown Dayton.

  
  

  Show details
• ART IN THE CITY INTERACTIVE ART EXPERIENCES

  • When
    1 Aug 2026
  •  
    1:00 PM - 7:00 PM
  • Location
    Downtown, Dayton

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Art in the City Interactive Art Experiences

  Saturday, August 1, 2026
  1:00–7:00 PM

  Locations:
  Riverscape MetroPark & The Dayton Arcade

  Admission: Free and open to the public

  Celebrate Art in the City Festival with a day of free, hands-on art experiences throughout downtown Dayton! Presented by Art Is Life in collaboration with the Dayton Society of Artists, these interactive activities invite visitors of all ages to create, connect, and experience the arts in fun and meaningful ways.

  Fabric of Dayton

  Location: Riverscape MetroPark

  Take part in "We Are the Fabric of Dayton," a pop-up print lab where participants can create their own wearable artwork.

  Pick a shirt. Make a shirt. Wear a shirt.

  Whether you're an experienced artist or trying printmaking for the first time, this welcoming activity offers a chance to express your creativity and leave with a one-of-a-kind shirt.

  The Patch Lab

  Location: The Dayton Arcade

  Join "Share the Care," a collaborative pop-up print lab where participants create, share, and wear custom patches while contributing to a community-centered art experience.

  Make a patch. Share a patch. Wear a patch.

  Artist Trading Card Exchange

  Location: The Dayton Arcade

  Celebrate "Art for Everyone" by creating an original Artist Trading Card and trading miniature works of art with fellow participants.

  Make a card. Trade a card. Keep a card.

  While you're downtown, be sure to visit the Art in the City Juried Art Show at the North Arcade Gallery, featuring original works by 12 local artists inspired by downtown businesses. Visitors are invited to vote for their favorite artwork and help select this year's People's Choice Award.

  Bring your friends and family and explore the creativity happening throughout downtown Dayton during Art in the City Festival. We look forward to celebrating with you!

  
  

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• Panel Discussion: The Landscape of Urban Contemporary Art. Presented as part of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM

  • When
    1 Aug 2026
  •  
    5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
  • Location
    118 N Jefferson Street Dayton, Ohio. 45402

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  The Landscape of Urban Contemporary Art — Panel Discussion
  

  Presented as part of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM

  Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 5:00 PM
  Location: 118 N. Jefferson Street, Dayton, OH 45402
  Admission: Free and open to the public

  Join us for The Landscape of Urban Contemporary Art, a dynamic panel discussion presented as part of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM.

  Moderated by Rodney Veal of ThinkTV, the conversation brings together internationally recognized artists Al Díaz, co-creator of SAMO®, Mike Giant, artist and co-founder of REBEL8, and Kimyon Huggins, artist and founder of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM.

  Together, the panelists will explore the evolution of urban contemporary art, discussing the influence of street art, illustration, design, music, and community on today's creative landscape. Drawing from decades of experience, they will share insights into artistic practice, cultural impact, and the future of the movement.

  Whether you're an artist, collector, student, or simply curious about contemporary culture, this free public discussion offers a rare opportunity to hear from influential voices shaping the conversation around urban art today.

  The Dayton presentation of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM is made possible through the support of an MCACD Special Projects Grant.

  Join us on Saturday, August 1 at 5:00 PM for this engaging conversation at 118 N. Jefferson Street.

  
  

  Show details
• PAROLA — Performed by the Dayton Dance Initiative Presented as part of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM

  • When
    1 Aug 2026
  •  
    8:00 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    118 N Jefferson Street Dayton, Ohio. 45402

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  PAROLA — Performed by the Dayton Dance Initiative

  Presented as part of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM

  Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 8:00 PM
  Location: 118 N. Jefferson Street, Dayton, OH 45402
  Admission: Free and open to the public

  Experience PAROLA, an immersive performance by the Dayton Dance Initiative, presented as part of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM.

  Returning to Dayton on August 1, PAROLA invites audiences to experience the work in a new way—or up close for the very first time. Presented within FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM, the event features a lineup of more than 100 creators, transforming the space into a dynamic environment where visual art, music, and performance converge.

  Whether you're revisiting PAROLA or discovering it for the first time, this one-night performance offers a unique opportunity to experience movement, creativity, and collaboration within one of the region's most innovative arts events.

  The Dayton presentation of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM is made possible through the support of an MCACD Special Projects Grant.

  Join us on Saturday, August 1 at 8:00 PM for this unforgettable performance at 118 N. Jefferson Street.

  Show details
• 2nd Annual St. Anne's Hill Summer Community Cook out

  • When
    2 Aug 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
  • Location
    48 High Street Dayton, Ohio. 45403

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM. EDITION 01, Live Streamed

  • When
    2 Aug 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Location
    118 N Jefferson Street Dayton, Ohio. 45402

  
  

  
  

  

  
  

  FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM – Edition 01

  Sunday, August 2, 2026 | 12:00–10:00 PM
  Location: 118 N. Jefferson Street, Dayton, OH 45402
  Admission: Free and open to the public

  Join us for the final day of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM – Edition 01, featuring contemporary art, live painting, and community as the exhibition concludes its inaugural weekend.

  Throughout the day, experience the group exhibition while artists create new works live, including Al Díaz, Mike Giant, Taliaferro Sebastian, Ezra Stinson, Dave Scott, and Lindsay Burke. The day's programming will also be live streamed, allowing audiences beyond Dayton to experience FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM online.

  Whether you visit in person or tune in virtually, the final day offers a unique opportunity to witness internationally recognized artists working alongside regional creatives in an immersive celebration of urban contemporary art.

  The Dayton presentation of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM is made possible through the support of an MCACD Special Projects Grant.

  Join us on Sunday, August 2, for the closing day of FUTURE IS NOW X MUSEUM – Edition 01.

  
  

  Show details
• Pop-Up Long Pose Nude Figure Drawing

  • When
    5 Aug 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  • Location
    Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton 45403
  • Spaces left
    29

  Register

  
  

  Pop-Up Long Pose Nude Figure Drawing

  Looking to sharpen your skills or spend more time with a sustained pose? Join us for a special Pop-Up Long Pose Nude Figure Drawing session at 118 N. Jefferson Street in downtown Dayton!

  Unlike our monthly 3rd Saturday sessions, this evening features a single long pose, allowing artists to spend extended time studying the figure, proportion, light, and shadow.

  When: Wednesday, August 5 | 6:00–8:00 PM
  Cost: $10 (Members) | $20 (Non-Members)
  What to Bring: Your own drawing supplies (pencils, charcoal, paper, etc.). We will have a limited number of easels and drawing horses available, as well as plenty of chairs.

  Relax, draw, and connect with a community of creatives in a welcoming and judgment-free environment. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just getting started, this is the perfect opportunity to slow down, focus, and strengthen your figure drawing skills.

  We can't wait to see what you create!

  Photo Credit:  ScottyD Creative Studios
  

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

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

  Location:
  118 N. Jefferson Street
  Dayton, OH 45402

  Date & Time:
  Wednesday, August 5
  6:00–8:00 PM

  DSA Cancelation Policy

  Show details
• Session 1, Pop-Up: Peaceful Paintings: A Neurographic Watercolor Experience

  • When
    6 Aug 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
  • Location
    118 N Jefferson Street Dayton, Ohio 45403
  • Spaces left
    13

  Register

  
  

  Peaceful Paintings: A Neurographic Watercolor Experience

  

  Experience the calming, colorful power of neurographic art—an easy to follow creative

  process designed to guide you into a relaxed state of being!

  Led by Matthew Burgy, a local artist at Front Street Studios with many years of prior teaching experience as both a former museum educator at the Dayton Art Institute and as a former adjunct professor at the University of Dayton, this peaceful painting process will include watercolors, oil pastels and more!

  No artistic experience necessary. All materials are provided! Cast your cares away and get

  lost in a fun, relaxed environment for adults where creativity is nurtured and experimentation is encouraged!

  Session 1: 6:00-7:00p.m.

  Cost (per session): $25 DSA members, $35 non-members. Note: each session is the same but repeat guests will be taught additional techniques as desired!

  Class space is limited to 15 guests per session—get your ticket before it sells out!

  Questions? Contact: Burgyartworks@gmail.com

  Location:
  

  118 N. Jefferson Street
  

  Dayton, OH 45402

  Free Street Parking After 6PM

  Flat Rate $3 Parking Lot at Second Street and Jefferson

  DSA Cancelation Policy

  Show details
• Session 2, Pop-Up: Peaceful Paintings: A Neurographic Watercolor Experience

  • When
    6 Aug 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    118 N Jefferson Street Dayton, Ohio 45403
  • Spaces left
    15

  Register

  
  

  Peaceful Paintings: A Neurographic Watercolor Experience

  

  Experience the calming, colorful power of neurographic art—an easy to follow creative

  process designed to guide you into a relaxed state of being!

  Led by Matthew Burgy, a local artist at Front Street Studios with many years of prior teaching experience as both a former museum educator at the Dayton Art Institute and as a former adjunct professor at the University of Dayton, this peaceful painting process will include watercolors, oil pastels and more!

  No artistic experience necessary. All materials are provided! Cast your cares away and get

  lost in a fun, relaxed environment for adults where creativity is nurtured and experimentation is encouraged!

  Session 2: 7:30-8:30p.m.

  Cost (per session): $25 DSA members, $35 non-members. Note: each session is the same but repeat guests will be taught additional techniques as desired!

  Class space is limited to 15 guests per session—get your ticket before it sells out!

  Questions? Contact: Burgyartworks@gmail.com

  Location:
  

  118 N. Jefferson Street
  

  Dayton, OH 45402

  Free Street Parking After 6PM

  Flat Rate $3 Parking Lot at Second Street and Jefferson

  DSA Cancelation Policy

  Show details
• School of the DAI Alumni Retrospective: Opening Reception

  • When
    14 Aug 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  • Location
    48 High Street Dayton, Ohio. 45403

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Opening Reception: "Double Exposure" Margie McCullough & Betsy Bennett

  • When
    14 Aug 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  • Location
    Dayton Society of Artists – 48 High Street, Dayton, OH

  
  

  
  

  Double Exposure

  Margie McCullough & Betsy Bennett

  Project Space Exhibition

  August 14 – September 5, 2026

  Opening Reception: Friday, August 14 | 6:00–8:00 PM

  The Dayton Society of Artists is pleased to present Double Exposure, a collaborative exhibition by Margie McCulloughand Betsy Bennett in the Project Space.

  "Double Exposure"
  

  The “Double Exposure” exhibit is composed of artwork done by two artists in two different mediums, but with an emphasis on the unique results achieved through collaboration. The display features the framed work of fine art photographer Margie McCullough next to multi-media art quilt interpretations of those same images, created collaboratively by Margie and art quilter Betsy Bennett. The art quilts have been enhanced with found objects and unique hanging systems to highlight each image and present a three-dimensional experience. Two mediums, two artists, two friends who hope people enjoy their creations.

  Double Exposure opens concurrently with the Dayton Art Institute Alumni Retrospective, offering visitors the opportunity to experience both exhibitions during the opening reception and throughout their run at the Dayton Society of Artists.

  Opening Reception: Friday, August 14, 2026 | 6:00–8:00 PM
  Exhibition Dates: August 14 – September 5, 2026
  Location: Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton, OH 45403
  Admission: Free and open to the public.

  Show details
• Dayton Society of Artists: Art Book Club

  • When
    20 Aug 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

  Register

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Dayton Society of Artists Book Club

  Finding Dora Maar: An Artist, an Address Book, a Life

  By Brigitte Benkemoun
  

  Translated by Jody Gladding

  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, Finding Dora Maar: An Artist, an Address Book, a Life by Brigitte Benkemoun, is a fascinating blend of biography, art history, and detective story. After her husband unknowingly purchases a vintage address book that once belonged to Dora Maar, Benkemoun embarks on an extraordinary journey to uncover the life behind one of the twentieth century's most intriguing artists.

  Often remembered primarily as Pablo Picasso's muse and the subject of The Weeping Woman, Dora Maar was a groundbreaking photographer, painter, and influential figure within the Surrealist movement. Guided by the names and phone numbers found in Maar's address book—including Jean Cocteau, André Breton, Brassaï, Leonor Fini, Paul Éluard, and many others—Benkemoun reconstructs a vibrant network of artists, writers, and intellectuals while revealing the remarkable story of Maar's own artistic career.

  More than a biography, Finding Dora Maar explores the excitement of historical research, the unexpected connections hidden within everyday objects, and the enduring impact of artists whose contributions have too often been overlooked. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Benkemoun paints an intimate portrait of an artist whose legacy continues to be rediscovered.

  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 a conversation exploring Dora Maar's artistic achievements, the Surrealist movement, and the remarkable detective work behind Benkemoun's book.

  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.

  Free and open to the public.

  Date & Time
  

  Thursday, August 20, 2026

  6:00–8:00 PM

  Location

  Dayton Society of Artists

  48 High Street

  Dayton, OH 45403

  Show details
• Pencils and Prompts: Drawing Basics

  • When
    23 Aug 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. August 23, 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

  Show details
• Sketcher Social Session: Advanced Drawing

  • When
    23 Aug 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. August 23, 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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• Saturday Nude Figure Drawing Session

  • When
    29 Aug 2026
  •  
    9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
  • Location
    Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton 45403
  • Spaces left
    15

  Register

  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. August 29.  9:30-11:30AM

  DSA Cancelation Policy

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• School of the DAI Alumni Retrospective: History Talk with Historian Kathleen Caffrey

  • When
    30 Aug 2026
  •  
    1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
  • Location
    48 High Street Dayton, Ohio. 45403

  
  

  
  

  Historian Talk: The School of the Dayton Art Institute
  

  Presented by Kathleen Caffrey

  Sunday, August 30, 2026 | 1:00–2:30 PM

  Location: Dayton Society of Artists

  Admission: Free and open to the public

  Join local historian Kathleen Caffrey for an engaging presentation exploring the history and lasting legacy of the School of the Dayton Art Institute. Once a cornerstone of arts education in the Miami Valley, the school shaped generations of artists before closing in 1975. Through photographs, stories, and historical insights, Caffrey will examine the school's origins, its influence on the region's artistic community, and the many accomplished alumni who continue to impact the arts today.

  This program is presented in conjunction with the DAI Alumni Show, on view at the Dayton Society of Artists August 14–September 5, 2026. Visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibition before or after the talk and celebrate the enduring legacy of the School of the Dayton Art Institute through the work of its alumni.

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• Artist Talk: Margie McCullough & Betsy Bennett

  • When
    3 Sep 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
  • Location
    48 High Street Dayton, Ohio. 45420

  
  

  Artist Talk:  Margie McCullough & Betsy Bennett

  Thursday, September 3, 2026 | 6:00–7:00 PM

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

  Admission: Free and open to the public.

  
  

  Join artists Margie McCullough and Betsy Bennett for an artist talk presented in conjunction with their collaborative Project Space exhibition, Double Exposure.
  

  "Double Exposure"

  The “Double Exposure” exhibit is composed of artwork done by two artists in two different mediums, but with an emphasis on the unique results achieved through collaboration. The display features the framed work of fine art photographer Margie McCullough next to multi-media art quilt interpretations of those same images, created collaboratively by Margie and art quilter Betsy Bennett. The art quilts have been enhanced with found objects and unique hanging systems to highlight each image and present a three-dimensional experience. Two mediums, two artists, two friends who hope people enjoy their creations.

  Following the talk, visitors are invited to explore Double Exposure and the Dayton Art Institute Alumni Retrospective, both on view through September 5, 2026.

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• School of the DAI Alumni Retrospective: Closing Reception

  • When
    5 Sep 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
  • Location
    48 High Street Dayton, Ohio. 45403

  
  

  
  

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• Essential Artists, meet and greet

  • When
    8 Oct 2026
  •  
    6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

  
  

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