Fighters for Freedom: William H. Johnson Picturing Justice
2026-08-20, 2026-08-21, 2026-08-22 | The Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park N, Dayton, OH, 45405, United States
June 27–September 13, 2026, Gallery 120
William H. Johnson (1901–1970) painted the Fighters for Freedom series in the mid-1940s as tribute to African American activists, scientists, teachers and performers as well as international leaders working to bring peace to the world. It was his last body of work. This landmark exhibition brings together—for the first time since 1946—34 paintings featured in the series, drawn from the collection of the Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM). This nationally traveling exhibition is accompanied by a scholarly, full-color exhibition catalog.
Of the series, SAAM states: “The exhibition illuminates the extraordinary life and contributions of Johnson, an artist associated with the Harlem Renaissance but whose practice spanned several continents, as well as the contributions of historical figures he depicted. Some of his Fighters—Marian Anderson, George Washington Carver, Mohandas Gandhi, and Harriet Tubman—are familiar figures; others—Nannie Helen Burroughs and William Grant Still, among them—are less well-known individuals whose achievements have been eclipsed over time. Johnson celebrates their accomplishments even as he acknowledges the realities of racism, oppression and sometimes violence they faced and overcame. Johnson clues viewers to significant episodes in the Fighters lives by punctuating each portrait with tiny buildings, flags and vignettes that give insight into their stories. Using a colorful palette to create evocative scenes and craft important narratives, he suggests that the pursuit of freedom is an ongoing, interconnected struggle, with moments of both triumph and tragedy.”

Captivating Clay: Contemporary Japanese Ceramics from the Horvitz Collection
2026-08-20, 2026-08-21, 2026-08-22 | The Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park N, Dayton, OH, 45405, United States
April 13, 2024–January 3, 2027, Gallery 106
Today, Japanese ceramic artists are building on centuries of tradition and taking the art in dynamic and new directions. They are exploring the potential of clay to create both functional and abstract sculptural forms with an incredible range of surface textures and decoration. The aesthetic sensibilities are varied, from rough and imperfect to detailed and refined, but all show a mastery of the craft.
Drawn from the renowned collection of Carol and Jeffrey Horvitz—including recent gifts from them to the museum—this exhibition presents more than thirty artworks spanning eight decades. Traditionally a craft restricted to men, in recent years women have become some of the leading voices in the field and several examples are included.
Artists range from innovative pioneers in the twentieth century, several designated as Living National Treasures in Japan, to emerging, younger artists. Interspersed are examples from the DAI’s collection of historic Japanese ceramics. Across 2,000 years, these speak to the long history of the art in the island nation and their continued inspiration for artists today.

Exploring Feminism
2026-08-20, 2026-08-21, 2026-08-22 | The Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park N, Dayton, OH, 45405, United States
February 7, 2026–January 31, 2027, Gallery 118
Feminism feels like a loaded term that, when presented to people, often triggers a gut reaction that it is positive or negative. But what actually is feminism? Presenting feminist artwork from the newly acquired Sara M. and Michelle Vance Waddell Collection, this three-part, rotating exhibition will demystify the origins, history and commitments of the feminist movement.
Often discussed in terms of waves, feminism has signified struggles for a range of causes at varying moments in time. Through Exploring Feminism, guests may become better acquainted with cycles of protest, self-expression and community-building for a movement that has continued to change and adapt to include more and different constituents within its umbrella of “feminists.”
No bras will be burned (and, in fact, never were) for this new exhibition featuring regional, national and international artists working in all manner of media.

We’re Doing It ALL Wrong® – 6th Annual Art Exhibition
2026-08-20, 2026-08-22 | Edward A. Dixon Gallery, 222 N. St. Clair St., Dayton, OH, 45402
The Public Reception will be held on Saturday, August 8th from 2pm-4pm.
Previous exhibitions pushed boundaries, featuring artwork that tackled complex and visceral subjects. As artists consider their submissions, they may reflect on the breadth of topics explored in previous years:
Environmental & Industrial Ethics: The devastating ecological impact of mass-production of material goods, corporate farming and the escalating urgency of climate change.
Human Rights & Social Crisis: The controversies of immigration laws and enforcement, the epidemic of missing Native American women, the cycle of homelessness, and the persistent weight of social injustice.
Systems of Control: The burden of sky-high pharmaceutical prices, the psychological manipulation of gaslighting, and our collective, increasing dependence on technology.

The Photography of Jake Schneider
2026-08-20, 2026-08-21, 2026-08-22 | Blind Bob’s, 430 E. Fifth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
We’re excited to welcome the photography of Jake Schneider to our walls for the month of August. Get to know more about Jake ans preview his work at https://sites.google.com/view/jake-schneider-

Movies at THE NEON
2026-08-20, 2026-08-21, 2026-08-22 | THE NEON, United States
Downtown Dayton’s independent movie theater has a great lineup of films showing every day.
Visit neonmovies.com for a schedule of what’s playing today!

LeMonde Light Lane
2026-08-20, 2026-08-21, 2026-08-22 | Third Street, Third Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
Light Lane is an interactive public art installation created by LeMonde Studio. It combines stationary bicycles, projection mapping, lighting, and sound to create a human-powered immersive experience that encourages play, sustainability, and community interaction. Four bicycles will be featured on Third Street in front of The Dayton Arcade during this month-long exhibit.
Light Lane is sponsored by PNC.

Collage Night
2026-08-20 17:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Come get creative in a relaxed, welcome space–no experience necessary! We’ll provide materials, or feel free to bring your own. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just looking to unwind and try something new, this night is all about making, experimenting, and connecting with others through art. Free .

Teen Craft and Learn – Vision Boards and Goal Setting
2026-08-20 18:30 - 19:30 | Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 215 E. Third Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
Teen Craft and Learn – Vision Boards and Goal Setting, Thursday, August 20, 6:30-7:30 pm, Main Library, Conference Room 1B: Learn about finances, planning for the future, and adult life skills while creating a vision boards for the school year and setting personal goals. Teens

The Levert Experience
2026-08-20 19:00 | Levitt Pavilion Dayton, 134 S. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402
August 20 @ 7:00 PM

Free Admission

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Series:

Montgomery County Funk/R&B Series

Genre:

R&B

We are thrilled to present Levert Experience, an electrifying R&B ensemble ready to dazzle audiences with their soulful performances and undeniable talent. Comprising Marc Gordon, the original founding member of Levert, along with Joe Little, lead singer of The Rude Boys, and Dave Tolliver from the R&B duo Men At Large, this group brings a wealth of experience and passion to every stage they grace.
Levert Experience promises an unforgettable musical journey through the timeless hits of Levert, delivering dynamic and engaging performances each time they step into the spotlight. With each member infusing their own unique flair and energy into every performance, audiences are guaranteed an evening filled with excitement and nostalgia.
Each member brings excitement to the stage as they take you through a journey musical journey of the song book of the classic Levert hits such as “Baby I’m Ready “ which reach number 1# on the R&B charts in 1991. Who could forget the number one hit ABC-123
Levert had hits songs throughout the late 80’s and early 90’s. You can’t forget the top five Billboard pop smash “ Casanova . Not only will they will be performing hits from Levert, but also hit songs that came out of Trevel Productions from the group the Rude Boys such as “Written All Over Your Face” Which became 1990 Billboard song of the year. Also from the 1# song from “Men At Large catalogue “So Alone”
They will be performing some of most popular songs by Levert including their first number one Pop Pop Goes My Mind We are confident that Levert Experience is the perfect addition to your lineup, offering a fresh take on classic R&B hits that will leave audiences craving more.

Take it for a Spin!
2026-08-21 18:00 - 20:00 | MADE Studio & Shop, 735 Wayne Ave., Dayton, OH, 45410
Have you always wanted to try the pottery wheel? Looking for something different to do with friends or for a date night? Take it for a Spin is a one-time wheel experience designed for complete beginners. It’s relaxed, supportive, and hands-on. We’ll walk you through throwing a small vessel on the wheel, and you’ll have the chance to give it a go. Expect a few laughs and muddy hands. Your piece will stay with us to be finished through the full process, including glazing and two kiln firings. We’ve expanded Take it for a Spin to include more time and more clay — we heard you. Giving you a bit more space to get comfortable at the wheel. Duration: One time, 2 hours Clay Included: 3 pounds total, divided into three 1-pound portions What You Will Learn Throwing: You will wedge clay, center a small amount on the wheel, open the form, and begin pulling walls into a simple cylinder or bowl. Working in 1-pound increments allows you to reset and try again. Process: You will learn what happens after your piece leaves your hands including drying, bisque firing, glazing, and glaze firing. One finished piece is included. If you choose to keep more than one, additional pots may be fired for $10 each to cover kiln and glaze costs. The full firing and glazing process takes approximately four weeks.

Bywater Call
2026-08-21 19:00 | Levitt Pavilion Dayton, 134 S. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402
August 21 @ 7:00 PM

Free Admission

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Series:

AES Rock/Pop Series

Genre:

Rock/Roots/Southern Soul

Often transcending genres, Bywater Call is known for their dynamic, emotional live shows, featuring powerful vocals and exciting interplay between all band members. A powerhouse seven-piece Southern soul, roots rock outfit from Toronto, Canada; the band is comprised of Meghan Parnell (vocals), Dave Barnes (guitar), Bruce McCarthy (drums), Mike Meusel (bass), newest member, Andrew Moljgun (keys), Stephen Dyte (trumpet) and Julian Nalli (tenor sax).
Bywater Call is steadily building a reputation as one of best up-and-coming bands in the market today. Their live performances paired with an ever-growing catalog of recorded music, is establishing their fanbase globally. With praises from other artists, media, and music fans alike, Bywater Call is quickly becoming a fan favorite.
Recently, Bywater Call played their second Joe Bonamassa “Keeping the Blues Alive” (KTBA) cruise, featuring headliners Big Head Todd and the Monsters and Larkin Poe. In 2025, they played the Netherland’s BOSPOP festival alongside the likes of the Black Keys, Warren Haynes Band, Marcus King and Blackberry Smoke, and others.
Bywater Call’s music is an exploration of life’s highs and lows. From intimate ballads that lay bare the complexities of human emotion to electrifying anthems that demand to be played at full volume, their catalogue is a journey through human experience, featuring influences from the likes of The Band, The Wood Brothers, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Otis Redding, Little Feat, Sly and the Family Stone, and many more.

Summer Music Series: Kenny Chesney Tribute with The Poets & Pirates
2026-08-21 19:00 - 21:00 | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Join us under the pavilion as the RiverScape Summer Music Series features a Kenny Chesney Tribute with The Poets & Pirates! It’s time to grab your flip-flops, because we’re welcoming the “No Shoes Nation” to RiverScape MetroPark. From the heart-pounding energy of a sold-out stadium to the laid-back storytelling of the Pirate-Poet himself, this band delivers the authentic Kenny Chesney experience with hit after hit of incredible music that keeps the party going all night long.
Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy this FREE live concert, while taking in a spectacular sunset over the Great Miami River. The RiverScape Café will be open selling food and drinks along with alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and cocktails, for those 21 and over. The Summer Music Series is presented by AES Ohio, and supported by Jack W. & Sally D. Eichelberger Foundation and Enterprise Roofing.

Birthday Candles
2026-08-21 20:00 | Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Avenue, Dayton, OH, 45410, USA
Birthday Candles

by Noah Haidle
Ernestine Ashworth spends her 17th birthday agonizing over her insignificance in the universe. Soon enough, it’s her 18th birthday. Even sooner, her 41st. Her 70th. Her 101st. Five generations, an infinity of dreams, and one cake baked over a century. This sweet, poignant, and funny play takes you through the extraordinary moments that make up one woman’s ordinary life.
Birthday Candles is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com

This Must Be the Party – Talking Heads Tribute
2026-08-21 20:30 - 22:30 | The Brightside, 905 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
This Must Be the Party is BACK! It’s an all-star musical celebration of The Talking Heads featuring a complete recreation of the beloved Stop Making Sense album. It’s one of our most acclaimed events, and we’re so excited to bring it back to The Brightside’s Ballroom. We highly recommend getting tickets in advance! HOW TO GO? August 21, 2026 The Brightside (905 E 3rd St., Dayton, OH) Doors 7:30pm / Show starts 8:30pm (ends @ approx 10:30pm) Tickets available here: $20 advance general admission $25 day of show general admission Limited reserved tables available This is a standing dance party, so wear comfy shoes! Limited seating available for patrons who need it. All ages welcome. Anyone under 18 needs parental supervision. Over 21? Bring ID to drink! Presented by Venus Child Productions.

Threads of History: Quilts by Carolyn Mazloomi
2026-08-22 | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
June 12-September 12, 2026
Threads of History: Quilts by Carolyn Mazloomi is a landmark solo exhibition by award-winning artist, historian, and curator Dr. Carolyn Mazloomi. Now an octogenarian, Mazloomi remains one of the most visionary leaders in contemporary quilting, widely recognized for her lifelong efforts to elevate African American quilt traditions. Her striking black-and-white quilts memorialize the lives and legacies of African American freedom fighters, capturing resilience, resistance, and remembrance through bold imagery and layered narrative. Originally trained as an aerospace engineer, Mazloomi shifted her focus in the 1980s to advocate for African American quilt artists whose contributions had long been marginalized. Through her scholarship, mentorship, and the founding of the Women of Color Quilters Network, she has transformed the cultural landscape, bringing international recognition to quilting as both fine art and historical record. Her extraordinary impact has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Bess Lomax Hawes NEA National Heritage Fellowship, a United States Artists Fellowship, and an American Craft Council Honorary Fellowship. Her work is held in major collections, including the Smithsonian Institution and the American Folk Art Museum. Opening Reception: June 12, 2026, 6-8 p.m.

Exhibit: Our Fire Is Stronger Than Your Bombs
2026-08-22 | The International Peace Museum, 10 N. Ludlow St., Dayton, OH, 45402
On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The war continues until now, ruining the lives of millions of people and uprooting the principles of civilized life as we know it. The goal of the exhibition is to raise awareness of the war still raging in the heart of Europe. Our exhibit showcases some of the brilliant artworks of contemporary Ukrainian illustrators living and working in Ukraine, sometimes, with no power, water, cell signal, or Internet connection. Many of them have long collaborated with global media, in particular The New Yorker, The Atlantic, Zeit, Adweek, and other outlets. The 25 posters on display have been created by 9 emerging and well-established illustrators since the start of the full-scale invasion. A poster, as a form of fine art blending imagery and text, is a convenient and iconic statement, a means of rapid, shareable response to the urgent events and personal emotions they trigger. In the context of the massive information war, illustrators have become the voices of the art community, and their activism adds tangible strength to the ‘cultural troops’ who fight propaganda every day, broadcasting facts through artistic images and defending the truth as eyewitnesses.
