Fighters for Freedom: William H. Johnson Picturing Justice
2026-08-19, 2026-08-20, 2026-08-21, 2026-08-22, 2026-08-23, 2026-08-26 | 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
2026-08-19, 2026-08-20, 2026-08-21, 2026-08-22, 2026-08-23, 2026-08-26 | 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
2026-08-19, 2026-08-20, 2026-08-21, 2026-08-22, 2026-08-23 | 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.

Threads of History: Quilts by Carolyn Mazloomi
2026-08-20, 2026-08-22, 2026-08-26 | 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.

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 .

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.

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, 2026-08-22 20:00, 2026-08-23 15:00 | 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

The Original Slave Ft. Thomas Lockett and Floyd Miller
2026-08-22 19:00 | Levitt Pavilion Dayton, 134 S. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402
August 22 @ 7:00 PM

Free Admission

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Series:

Montgomery County Funk/R&B Series

Genre:

Funk

Second-generation Dayton funk stars The Original Slave formed in Ohio in 1976 around a nucleus of guitarist Mark Hicks, singer and brass man Floyd Miller, bassist Mark Adams, guitarist and singer Danny Webster, and trumpeter Steve Washington, the nephew of pioneering Ohio Players trumpeter Ralph “Pee Wee” Middlebrooks.
Early on, Floyd came to a band meeting wearing a t-shirt with the word “Slave” on one side and “Master” on the other. Washington, whose family had direct ties to Frederick Douglass and the abolitionist movement, embraced a concept that transformed the term into a message of responsibility and purpose: that everyone carries a responsibility to help make the world a better place. The band’s contribution would be to uplift people through music with healing, meaning, and connection. They called their higher-plane sound not simply funk, but “Fungk” with a “g,” alluding to a spiritual, God-inspired element.
The Original Slave exploded onto the scene with its 1977 debut single, “Slide,” making overnight sensations of guitarist Mark “Drac” Hicks, who earned his nickname through vocal improvisations on the track, and bassist “Mr. Mark” Adams. Both were still teenagers, yet already demonstrating extraordinary musical talent.
By the group’s third album, the ever-evolving collective had added two powerful new voices: vocalist Starleana Young, just 16 years old at the time, and Steve Arrington. Arrington began as a percussionist but quickly emerged as one of the defining voices of Slave, bringing an organic vocal style influenced as much by jazz saxophonist John Coltrane and blues-rock guitarist Jimi Hendrix as by traditional singers.
Today, The Original Slave Ft. Thomas Lockett and Floyd Miller continues to celebrate and perform the timeless music that made Slave one of the most influential funk bands to emerge from Dayton’s rich musical legacy. Audiences can expect the classic grooves, infectious energy, and enduring hits that helped define an era of funk music while honoring the band’s lasting impact on generations of fans.

Artist in Training (AIT) Program
2026-08-24 15:00 - 18:00, 2026-08-25 15:00 - 18:00 | K12 Gallery & TEJAS, 341 S. Jefferson St., Dayton, OH, 45402
After school Artist in Training program geared for grades 3rd-12th grades. Classes are Monday-Wednesdays from 3:00pm-6:00pm. Open Studio time to explore different types of mediums such as Drawing, Painting, Clay, Digital Art. 20.00 per session for Members/40.00 per session for Non-Members.
