A message from the Executive Director—

“Humanity forges a new path.” “Space still is the new frontier.” “A new-found affinity for masks, they aren’t just for masquerades anymore.” “Zoom is not just a riff from ‘Pitch Perfect.’” 

I have lists and lists of these headline leads for 2020. Honestly, though, I’m through with looking back. It is time to look forward. As we do, we see the opportunity to create a more equitable and empathetic experience through the arts. That is why we are “thinking bigger” (mantra from my time with Famous Dave). Inspiration is everywhere. And we are utilizing inspiration to think bigger (and actually better).

In the months to come, you will see: 

• The return of Free Family Day with a new virtual format and a new name. 
• The first ever DAI Ceramic Studio Juried Exhibition
• Focus on access for absent narrative about mental wellness and ability challenges
• The creation of art classes: For the Love of Winter
• The Annual Member Meeting with a new look! We are making announcements (more to come) as we welcome in new board members and officers-that you vote to accept.
• MORE Free FriDAI digital activities
• Robust exhibition openings mid-January
• A Member Survey- we need your input to think bigger and be better
• How the DAI, after 113 years of being a primarily white institute transformed into a BIPOC led arts organization and why that matters.

The great Grace Lee Bogs once said, “Revolution is EVOLUTION towards something much grander in terms of what it means to be a human being.” Isn’t that the truth! We hope revolution leads you to new places and perspectives within your future. This journey is ours together and we sure hope to hear what has changed, where you’ve grown and what is now most important.

Please consider helping us prepare for what you need in the “after time” of the pandemic keeping our physical doors closed. The power of the visual arts and art education is in fueling evolution, connecting us to heal, and learning new ways of being. Help us think bigger by participating in our member survey in the coming weeks and with a financial gift. 

Your gift will go directly towards:

• Employing artists as teachers and exhibitors, many of whom continue to endure financial struggle
• Connect youth to art education, which is a sector of education that is suffering
• Attaining technology and infrastructure to produce virtual experiences for classes, artist talks, social events and more
• Proudly proclaiming your support to fight for equity and justice

If you prefer to give to our endowment, please memo that on your donation. 

Your survey answers will guide our strategic plan for 2021-2023 by:

• Allowing to have insight into what’s important to you
• Understanding the community
• Learning how you incorporate visual art into your “everyday”
• And hearing what you want from the DAI 

We can’t wait until we are all back together again! Even in the midst of the pandemic, we will continue keep our doors “open” and deliver access to exhibitions and classes by following restrictions, using the app Smartify, and through a stronger web presence.

Warmly,

Christina Woods

Duluth Art Institute Executive Director