When it comes to being thankful, the Dayton Art Institute has a great deal to be thankful for during these uncertain times. Starting as a school in 1919, the organization was created by a group of Dayton citizens who shared a love of art, learning and community. Today, while so much has changed, those three principles remain true to our mission of being committed to enriching the community by creating meaningful experience with art that are available to all.
As we start our second century, we are grateful for a community that continues to value the museum’s world-class collection, our unique and diverse offerings in exhibitions and educational programs, and signature events like Art ball, Bourbon & Bubbles and Oktoberfest. We are thankful to be an important part of peoples’ memories, from summer camps and special classes to corporate events and weddings. Many Daytonians have a special place in their hearts for their DAI.
We are thankful for our Board of Trustees, Associate Board, volunteers, staff, members, sponsors and donors who continue to be committed to Dayton’s rich cultural community. Dayton loves the arts, but also understands that a vibrant cultural scene is an economic driver. The arts represent the third largest industry in the state of Ohio, behind agriculture and manufacturing.
We are most thankful for those individuals, corporations and foundations who have stayed the course with us through the pandemic. Their support, whether through memberships, financial support, museum admission or shopping at the Museum Store, has allowed us to continue to bring the community the traditions they love and new opportunities to have meaningful experiences with art.
Throughout history art has told our stories, captured our joys and sorrows, and provided a universal language of love and understanding, so that we may grow as people and as a society. As we continue to make our way through the challenges of the pandemic, social unrest and a polarized political environment, I am thankful that the DAI is a welcoming gathering place that celebrates all cultures, races, religions, genders, orientations and abilities. The DAI is a place for open and honest dialogue through respectful and meaningful mediums. We are intentional about our inclusion and are continually working to make the museum a place that represents all those in the beautiful quilt that makes up the Dayton and Miami Valley region. Thank you, Dayton. We look forward to seeing you soon at your DAI!