The Dayton Art Institute

06/17/2026

Have you ever wondered why there are so many Monet Waterlilies?

You're not alone! Our Head Curator, Dr. Jerry Smith, shares the story behind Claude Monet's fascination with waterlilies and how they became some of the most recognizable paintings in art history. Watch to get the scoop!

🖼️ Claude Oscar Monet (French, 1840-1926), "Nymphéas", 1903, Oil on Canvas. Gift of Mr. Joseph Rubin, 1953.11

06/16/2026

We will be closed on Friday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth. ❤️

As we recognize this important day in our nation's history, we encourage everyone to take time to reflect on its significance and celebrate the ongoing pursuit of freedom, equality and justice. We'll be back to our regular hours on Saturday, June 20.

06/15/2026

A brand-new beer experience is coming to the DAI on August 1! 🍻

At Collab Fest, local Dayton breweries are teaming up to create exclusive collaboration beers available for one day only. These special brews are made just for the event, so if you don't taste them at Collab Fest, you won't get another chance!

Spend the evening sampling unique beers, enjoying snacks, exploring the museum and taking home a commemorative Dayton Collab Fest glass. Rain or shine, it's all happening indoors with AC to keep you cool while you enjoy your beverages!

Early Bird tickets are $40 through July 5 before prices increase. Tickets are limited, so grab your tickets before they're gone!

TICKETS: https://dai.ticketapp.org/portal/product/134/events

06/15/2026

Art Ball wouldn’t be what it is without the incredible dedication of our Associate Board! ♥️

From months of planning to the final details on event day, they help bring this unforgettable evening to life. Whether they're welcoming guests, selling raffle tickets, working behind the scenes or helping everything run smoothly from start to finish, their hard work and enthusiasm make all the difference!

Thank you to our entire Associate Board for everything you do to support the Dayton Art Institute! A special thank you to this year’s Art Ball Chairs, Myla Cardona-Jones and Alan Cardona, for their leadership, vision and commitment to making Art Ball 2026 an unforgettable celebration! We are so grateful for all of you!

06/14/2026

Explore the Grafton Hill Historic District during its beautiful Garden Tour & Historic Auto Show on June 20 from 11 AM – 4 PM! 🌸

Tour 8 historic homes and gardens, including a stunning urban garden recently recognized by the Smithsonian Institution and the Garden Club of America. This nationally recognized garden is truly a must-see! Get your tickets today and experience one of Dayton's hidden gems.

Tickets: graftonhilltourtickets.eventbrite.com

06/13/2026

Art Ball, Presented by The SharpGroup - Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Professional Realty and Unlistedhomes.com, is finally here! 🪩

The finishing touches are underway, the excitement is building and we can't wait to welcome everyone for an unforgettable evening. See you soon!

06/12/2026

We were delighted to welcome Keitaro Harada, Music & Artistic Director of the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, to the Dayton Art Institute!

Keitaro shared his perspective on a work featured in our focus exhibition, “All the World's a Stage”, highlighting the history and Dayton connections woven into a single piece. Be sure to plan your visit and experience this fascinating exhibition for yourself!

🖼️ Jane Reece (American, 1868–1961) and Frank M. Betz (American, 1885–1982), “Chamber Orchestra Society Performing At The Dayton Art Institute, Paul Katz, Conductor”, 1930s, Gelatin silver print. Gift of Mr. Frank Fred Betz, 2006.40

06/11/2026

Are you the parent of a 1st or 2nd grader? Stop scrolling and keep reading to learn how you can give them the best summer ever!

Our Summer Art Camps are half-day, week-long camps taking place throughout June and July. Young artists will explore the museum's collection, find inspiration in the artwork around them and create their own masterpieces using a variety of 2D and 3D art-making techniques in our studios.

With rotating themes each week, every camp offers a new creative adventure and plenty of opportunities for fun. Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your child's spot today!

LEARN MORE: https://www.daytonartinstitute.org/create-learn/summer-art-camp/

06/10/2026

It's awesome seeing Associate Board members, Max Spang and Briana Snyder, doing big things! 😊🙌

Knack acquires Figment studio in downtown Dayton expansion >> See the full article below ⬇️

06/09/2026

Join the Dayton Art Institute's High School Summer Volunteer Program!

If you're a rising junior or senior, this opportunity is for you. Spend time at the museum, meet new people and gain valuable experience along the way. Plus, Volunteer on a schedule that works for you!

Explore available opportunities and sign up with a parent or guardian using the link below.

LEARN MORE: https://www.daytonartinstitute.org/join-support/high-school-volunteers/