Teresa Olavarria: Lichen Opens This Week at The Contemporary Dayton

The Contemporary Dayton announcing our May Member Spotlight exhibition, Teresa Olavarria: Lichen, opening on Wednesday and running through May 30, 2026.

The exhibition features wall-mounted sculptures in which Olavarria translates the delicate forms of lichen into enduring works in vitreous enamel on copper and patinated cast bronze. Through layered, labor-intensive processes, she creates richly textured works that echo organic structures found in nature, preserving these fragile organisms in metal as both study and tribute. Based in Dayton, Ohio, Olavarria is a graduate of the University of Dayton, and her practice is shaped by close observation, scientific curiosity, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

All artworks are available for purchase, with proceeds supporting both the artist and The Contemporary Dayton’s mission to connect artists and audiences through accessible, engaging contemporary art experiences.

We invite you to join us for the opening reception this Wednesday, May 6, from 6–8 PM, and the closing reception on Saturday, May 30, from 4–6 PM.

Download Press Release

ABOUT THE CONTEMPORARY DAYTON

Mission: To provide art for the community and a community for artists.

Overview: The Contemporary Dayton (The Co) is the region’s contemporary art center. Established in 1991 as Dayton Visual Arts Center (DVAC), a 501c3, The Co produces and presents original exhibitions and programs, art events, community partnerships, and artist opportunities. Exhibitions and education programs feature artists living and working today, both nationally and in Ohio, with an emphasis on those whose work focuses on issues of social justice. In addition to its three galleries—open to all and always free—its retail store, the CoSHOP, provides income for Ohio artists and extends The Co’s accessibility to art, from visitor engagement to educational outreach through store products, programs, and experiences.

The Co is proud to support the creation of connections among the arts, community building, civic engagement, community planning, and use of public space, and makes an annual economic impact of 3.4 million to the region. Recently raising 1 million during the Pandemic to expand and move into its new home in downtown’s historic Dayton Arcade, The Co is led by Executive Director Eva Buttacavoli, a 30-year art museum administrator, curator, and educator, whose previous roles were at The Contemporary Austin, TX and The Perez Art Museum Miami, FL; and Curator Michael Goodson, who previously served as Curator at the Wexner Center for the Arts, Beeler Gallery, Columbus College of Art and Design, OH; and as Director at James Cohan Gallery, NY.

The Contemporary Dayton receives operating support from Culture Works, Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District, Ohio Arts Council, the Virginia W. Kettering Foundation, and Members.