DAYTON, OH.- This summer, the Dayton Art Institute (DAI) will present a bold new exhibition showcasing the extraordinary works of women artists. Riveting: Women Artists from the Sara M. and Michelle Vance Waddell Collection will be on view from June 22–September 8, 2024.
“Women have made immense contributions to the arts, but for too long, their work was often overlooked or dismissed,” said DAI Director & President Michael R. Roediger. “Recognizing this, the DAI has committed to meaningfully sharing the work and stories of women artists. We are so excited to open this DAI-exclusive exhibition that contributes to the goal of highlighting women artists and showcases captivating and commanding artworks with important messages.”
Riveting presents art by primarily contemporary women artists drawn from the major, private collection of Sara M. and Michelle Vance Waddell. The works touch on many subjects and include powerful artistic statements, with many items speaking to prominent social issues of the day, including those relating to LGBTQ+ communities and reproductive rights.
The exhibition includes more than 85 artworks by 79 artists. The work shown embraces all major media: paintings, sculptures, works on paper, photographs and textiles, and themes range from humorous to irreverent to thought-provoking.
“I collect difficult work,” explains Sara M. Vance Waddell. “I don’t have too many pieces of work where you go ‘That’s so beautiful.’ I hear the words ‘it’s powerful, it’s riveting, it makes you think.’”
A testament to the collectors’ commitment to amplifying lesser-known voices, the exhibition features local and emergent artists alongside internationally recognized artists such as Cindy Sherman, Kiki Smith, Ana Mendieta and many others. The collection boasts exceptional diversity, featuring artists from many different backgrounds and nationalities.
“So many of the artists in this show are honest about who they are and where they are coming from. Each has a perspective and uses their art to make a statement,” said Kettering Curator of Photography & Special Projects Mariah A. Postlewait. “Every viewing of the exhibition could tell a different story because the work is so varied and complex, and allows for deep, personal connection.”
The exhibition is sure to spark conversation amongst viewers. One of the highlights will be Carolee Shneemann’s Interior Scroll (1974/75), a groundbreaking achievement of feminist art that remains relevant and controversial to this day.
“Human complexity is expressed in this show,” said DAI Head Curator & Curatorial Affairs Director Jerry N. Smith. “The exhibition is serious, funny, heartwarming and heartbreaking. It’s challenging and inspiring. The art is complex, and the exhibition displays how incredibly talented these artists are.”
