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• The Dayton Society of Artists: History, David Smith, and Past & Present Board Members

  • Start
    2 Feb 2026
  •  
  • End
    27 Feb 2026
  •  
  • Location
    Dayton Metro Library - 215 E. Third St. Dayton, OH 45402

  The Dayton Society of Artists:  History, David Smith, and Past & Present Board Members

  Exhibit on Display Monday, Febuary  2 - Friday, February  27, 2026
  Main Library, The 2^nd Floor Gallery

  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.

  
  
  

  Show details
• At This Moment, Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 2nd Floor Gallery

  • Start
    22 Feb 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM
  • End
    12 Apr 2026
  •  
    3:00 PM
  • Location
    Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 2nd Floor Gallery
  • Spaces left
    118
  • Registered
    2 registrants

  Register

  Call for Art: At This Moment

  PLEASE NOTE THIS EXHIBITION WILL BE HOSTED AT DAYTON METRO LIBRARY MAIN BRANCH, THE 2ND FLOOR GALLERY.

  AT THIS MOMENT: As the United States reaches a 250-year milestone, "At This Moment" invites artists to reflect on the present—on lived experience, observation, and the realities of contemporary life. Rather than focusing on historical celebration, this exhibition centers the now, encouraging thoughtful, personal, and varied responses to the time we inhabit.

  Artists are invited to explore themes such as identity, place, community, memory, belonging, change, continuity, and everyday experience. Works may respond to personal narratives, social environments, cultural influences, or quiet moments that define life today. Interpretations may be literal or abstract, intimate or expansive, reflective or questioning.

  Presented in a public library setting, "At This Moment" emphasizes accessibility, dialogue, and reflection. The exhibition brings together diverse artistic voices and approaches, offering viewers an opportunity to pause, consider, and engage with the present as it is being lived.

  ELIGIBILITY
  Open to all artists 18 years and older.
  
  JURYING WILL BE DONE BY THE DSA EXHIBITIONS COMMITTEE.
  
  SUBMITTING ARTWORK
  Please submit your work via website submission by Sunday, April 12. Please direct questions to:  director@daytondsa.org
  
  CALENDAR
  Submission Deadline:  Sunday, April 12
  Notification of Acceptance:  by April 19
  Art Drop-Off: Saturday, May 2. 10am-12pm(at the Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 2nd Floor Gallery) contract will be available to sign at drop-off.

  Exhibition Runs:  May 3-May 30, 2026

  Art Pick-Up:  Sunday, May 31 10am-12pm(at the Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 2nd Floor Gallery)
  
  ENTRY FEES
  FREE
  
  REQUIREMENTS
  Image(s) submitted must be clear, focused on the work, and as professionally taken as possible. Acceptable images can be taken by a smartphone.
  For tips on how to edit your photos using the Snapseed App, visit:
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0g4a1Ge-Ds&t=321s
  Contact the gallery director (director@daytondsa.org) to set up an appointment at the gallery to walk you through the photo-taking and application process.
  Artists must be DSA members in good standing. 2D Artwork must be no larger than 60”(width)x 60”(height). LARGER WORKS ARE ENCOURAGED BUT NOT REQUIRED.
  3D artwork must fit on a pedestal that has a footprint of 24” x 24” (or smaller) or sit on the floor. Artwork must be professionally presented. 2D work must be ready to hang with wiring on back.
  Artwork must be labelled with name, title, medium, price, and e-mail.
  Artwork may not be picked up before the close of the show.
  Accepted work that differs significantly from submitted image or suffers from poor presentation will be disqualified.
  
  LIABILITY & SALES
  The Dayton Society of Artists (DSA) and Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 2nd Floor Gallery are not responsible for insuring artwork submitted for or exhibited in the gallery. Artists are solely responsible for insuring their work during delivery, installation, the exhibition period, and pickup. The DSA and Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 2nd Floor Gallery are not liable for loss or damage due to circumstances beyond its control. Please note that the gallery does not have constant climate control. No prices will be advertised at Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 2nd Floor Gallery.

  AGREEMENT TO PARTICIPATE
  Submitting indicates that you agree with the conditions of entry and exhibit as outlined in these guidelines, and that you agree to make your  work available and will ship/deliver it to the gallery should it be selected for exhibit. The DSA and Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 2nd Floor Gallery may use submitted images and artwork in print and/or digital marketing materials.
  
  CONTACT
  For any questions regarding the exhibition or submission process, please contact the DSA at director@daytondsa.org.

  Show details
• Sketcher Social Session: Advanced Drawing

  • Start
    22 Feb 2026
  •  
  • End
    24 May 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    4 sessions
  • Location
    48 High Street, Dayton 45403
  • Spaces left
    12

  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 - $30

  Pre-registration Required

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

  Date & Time: 
  Sun. February 22, 2:30 - 4:30 PM

  Sun. March 22, 2:30-4:30PM

  Sun. April 26, 2:30-4:30PM

  Sun. May 24, 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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• Artist Talk: Francis Trick

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

  
  

  Artist Talk: Francis Trick

  Exploring Color and Light

  The Dayton Society of Artists is pleased to present an Artist Talk with Francis Trick, held in conjunction with his solo exhibition Exploring Color and Light, currently on view at the DSA. This program runs concurrently with A Living Legacy: The Permanent Collection of the Dayton Society of Artists, creating an opportunity to experience contemporary work alongside the historical legacy of the organization.

  Date: Thursday, February 26, 2026

  Time: 6:00–7:00 PM

  Location: Dayton Society of Artists

  Admission: Free and open to the public

  During this artist talk, Francis Trick will discuss his creative process, materials, and influences. His work explores movement, luminosity, and the expressive power of color through abstract acrylic pour painting. Using interference, iridescent, metallic, and color-shift paints, Trick builds layered, fluid compositions that emphasize depth, surface variation, and the interaction of light. The talk offers visitors insight into the intuitive and process-driven nature of his practice and the evolution of his work.

  About the Artist

  Francis (Frank) J. Trick is a visual artist who has explored creative expression since childhood, maintaining a lifelong interest in drawing and making art. Throughout his professional career in retail sales, he continued to work creatively in various forms, including jewelry making and painting statuary, earning several awards along the way.

  After retiring in 2023, Frank returned to art more fully and began experimenting with acrylic painting, particularly liquid pouring techniques. What began as a hobby quickly developed into a dedicated artistic practice. He mixes his own mediums and materials for each work and is a member of several local galleries. Frank enjoys sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm for his rediscovered passion for art.

  Exhibition Dates:

  February 13 – March 7, 2026

  
  

  Show details
• Close to Home

  • Start
    9 Mar 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM
  • End
    28 Mar 2026
  •  
    3:00 PM
  • Location
    Rosewood Arts Center
  • Spaces left
    76

  Registration is closed

  Call for Art: Close to Home

  PLEASE NOTE THIS EXHIBITION WILL BE HOSTED AT ROSEWOOD ARTS CENTER IN THEIR COMMUNITY GALLERY SPACE.

  CLOSE TO HOME: “Close to Home” aims to explore personal and shared experiences of place, memory and familiarity. By focusing on this theme, the goal is to showcase artworks that reflect how environments-both physical and emotional-shape our sense of connection and belonging. Artists are encouraged to interpret the idea of home broadly, whether through literal spaces, symbolic imagery, abstract responses, or personal narratives. The theme offers wide opportunities for artistic interpretation across all media.
  
  

  ELIGIBILITY
  Open to Dayton Society of Artists(DSA) members.  Not a member, join here:  https://www.daytondsa.org/membership
  
  JURYING WILL BE DONE BY THE DSA EXHIBITIONS COMMITTEE.
  
  SUBMITTING ARTWORK
  Please submit your work via website submission by Sunday, January 25. Don’t like to submit online? Make an appointment with the director at director@daytondsa.org, and we can enter it together. Appointments must be made before Friday, January 23 by emailing director@daytondsa.org.
  
  CALENDAR
  Submission Deadline:  Sunday, January 25
  Notification of Acceptance by February 1
  Art Drop-Off:  Friday February 20, 4-8pm and Saturday February 21, 12-5pm (at the DSA)
  Exhibition Runs:  March 3-March 28, 2026
  Closing Reception:  Saturday, March 28, 1-3 PM(Rosewood Arts Center)
  Art Pick-Up:  Saturday March 28 after Rosewood Arts Center closing reception.
  
  ENTRY FEES
  $10 for 3 pieces via website submission.
  Become a member at daytondsa.org/becomeamember
  
  REQUIREMENTS
  Image(s) submitted must be clear, focused on the work, and as professionally taken as possible. Acceptable images can be taken by a smartphone.
  For tips on how to edit your photos using the Snapseed App, visit:
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0g4a1Ge-Ds&t=321s
  Contact the gallery director (director@daytondsa.org) to set up an appointment at the gallery to walk you through the photo-taking and application process.
  Artists must be DSA members in good standing. 2D Artwork must be no larger than 36”(width)x 36”(height)
  (including all framing, etc). 3D artwork must fit on a pedestal that has a footprint of 24” x 24” (or smaller) or sit on the floor. Artwork must be professionally presented. 2D work must be ready to hang with wiring on back. DSA is open to other installation methods, but they must be pre-approved.
  Artwork must have been created in the past 5 years.
  Artwork must be labelled with name, title, medium, price, and e-mail.
  Artwork may not be picked up before the close of the show.
  Accepted work that differs significantly from submitted image or suffers from poor presentation will be disqualified.
  
  LIABILITY & SALES
  The Dayton Society of Artists (DSA) and Rosewood Arts Center are not responsible for insuring artwork submitted for or exhibited in the gallery. Artists are solely responsible for insuring their work during delivery, installation, the exhibition period, and pickup. The DSA and Rosewood Arts Center are not liable for loss or damage due to circumstances beyond its control. Please note that the gallery does not have constant climate control. Rosewood will take a 30% commission on all artwork sales; artists should price work accordingly or designate work as Not for Sale. Donations in addition to sales are always appreciated and help support future programming.
  
  AGREEMENT TO PARTICIPATE
  Submitting indicates that you agree with the conditions of entry and exhibit as outlined in these guidelines, and that you agree to make your  work available and will ship/deliver it to the gallery should it be selected for exhibit. The DSA and Rosewood Arts Center may use submitted images and artwork in print and/or digital marketing materials.
  
  CONTACT
  For any questions regarding the exhibition or submission process, please contact the DSA at director@daytondsa.org.

  Show details
• Tuesday Evening Art Talks: Origins: The Formation of the Dayton Society of Artists

  • Start
    10 Mar 2026
  •  
  • End
    8 Dec 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    10 sessions
  • Location
    DSA Gallery 48 High St Dayton Oh 45403

  Register

  Origins: The Formation of the Dayton Society of Artists
  

  Join us for an art history talk exploring how the Dayton Society of Artists began.

  Founded in 1938, the Dayton Society of Artists was created by local artists who believed in the power of community, exhibition opportunity, and artist-led advocacy. This presentation looks at Dayton’s cultural climate in the late 1930s, the founding members who helped shape the organization, and the early years that established the foundation for one of the region’s longest-running artist-led arts groups.

  Led by DSA Historian Kathleen Caffrey, the talk draws from archival materials and historical research to examine the people, purpose, and vision behind the formation of the DSA—and the early leadership that helped shape its lasting impact in the Dayton arts community.

  
  

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• Dayton Printmakers - Letterpress Printed Greeting Card

  • When
    14 Mar 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Spaces left
    4

  Register

  
  

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• 3rd Saturday Nude Figure Drawing Session(RELAUNCH)

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

  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. March  21.  9:30-11:30AM

  DSA Cancelation Policy

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• Pencils and Prompts: Drawing Basics

  • Start
    22 Mar 2026
  •  
  • End
    24 May 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton 45403
  • Spaces left
    14

  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 - $25

  Pre-registration required 

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

  Class Prompt: 
  
  

  Date & Time: 
  Sun. February 22, 12:45 - 2 PM

  Sun. March 22, 12:45-2PM

  Sun. April 26, 12:45-2PM

  Sun. May 24, 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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• DSA Art Book Club

  • Start
    26 Mar 2026
  •  
  • End
    28 May 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions

  Register

  DSA Book Club
  

  Featuring Cult of Progress by David Olusoga

  The Dayton Society of Artists is excited to launch a new Book Club series designed to bring artists, historians, and community members together for thoughtful conversation and shared learning.

  Our first selection is Cult of Progress by David Olusoga, an insightful and compelling exploration of how ideas of “progress” have shaped history, culture, power, and identity. Through vivid storytelling and deep historical research, Olusoga examines the narratives that have defined modern society and challenges readers to reconsider whose voices are centered — and whose are overlooked — in the story of advancement.

  This discussion will be led by Kathleen Caffrey, Dayton Society of Artists board member and Historian. With her deep knowledge of regional history and commitment to preserving artistic and cultural legacies, Kathleen will guide participants through a meaningful and engaging conversation connecting the themes of the book to art, community, and our shared histories.

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

  Free and open to the public.

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

  • When
    31 Mar 2026
  •  
    6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location
    48 High Street, Dayton 45403
  • Spaces left
    15

  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.

  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

  Cost: 
  

  Non-Members - $40
  Members - $30

  Pre-registration Required

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

  Date & Time: 
  Tuesday.  March 31, 6:30-9PM

  
  

  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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• Dayton Printmakers - Introduction to Letterpress Printing

  • When
    25 Apr 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Spaces left
    3

  Register

  
  

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