Dayton Art Institute: Free Fun for the Family

A few weeks ago, I was invited to be a part of a Social Media preview for the Dayton Art Institute’s new exhibit, “Modern Masters.” I was thrilled to get the invitation because I love art, and haven’t been to anything like that since I had kids!

As I arrived we were free to walk around the museum until our tour started. As I walked around, I thought to myself, “why haven’t I been here in so long?!” It's free! It is gorgeous! It's FUN! There is even an area dedicated to children called “The Experiencenter.” The Experiencenter is soooooo cool! You have to take your kids there! (And with this summer heat, it is air conditioned and free, so GO!) The other areas of the museum are amazing, too. It is full of lessons on history, culture, and art. A great spot for the family that is often forgotten about!

After walking through the main part of the museum, we traveled to the “Modern Masters” exhibit. It is a beautiful display of 43 pieces from 31 artists. The artists are from the 1950s and on loan from The Smithsonian. The works have never been grouped together before, and are an amazing testament to our nations history. Because of the invention and popularization of the camera, many of the artists from this era explored other ways to express themselves in abstract art. It was gorgeous!

To add to the exhibit, there are interactive features included. On Thursdays and Saturdays, you have the opportunity to sit and create your own work, inspired by the art around you. Materials are provided, and there is space to hang your art at the end of the exhibit. (What a fun thing for the kids to do!) There are also QR Codes provided by Scan Dayton that take you to sound clips and websites on your smart phone that enhance your experience. It's a lot of fun. (Don't know about Scan Dayton? Check out our previous post)

The Modern Masters exhibit is on view until October 10. Admission is $10 per adult, children 7-18 are $6, seniors/ students, $8. Active duty military and their immediate family is free admission. Also, there are 2 FREE days on Aug. 19 and Sept. 16.

My favorite piece in the collection was by Robert Motherwell, and it was called “Figure in Black.” But my favorite artist is Monet (and there is a Monet in the Dayton Art Institute!) Who is your favorite artist?

-Celia