IN SMALL MEASURE
FEBRUARY 13 & 14, 2026
This creative initiative invites artists from across the region and beyond to donate original, postcard-sized artworks—each measuring 4 x 6 inches—to support The Contemporary Dayton’s mission to advance equity, diversity, and access through the presentation of contemporary art and ideas.
Artists of all backgrounds and working in any medium are welcome to participate by creating and donating an original postcard-sized artwork. Submissions may include drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, collage, sculpture, textile, or mixed media, as long as the piece is original and reflects the artist’s hand.
Each artwork will be sold anonymously for $100, offering collectors and art lovers alike a chance to take home a unique piece of art while directly supporting The Contemporary Dayton’s exhibitions and programs. The goal of the event is to raise $10,000 to help sustain the organization’s mission during a particularly challenging time for arts organizations and small nonprofits.
All participating artists will receive two complimentary tickets to the Live Sale Event on February 13, 2026 and may purchase discounted Preview Party tickets for $35 per person.
PUBLIC PROGRAMS & EVENTS / ALL PROGRAMS TAKE PLACE AT THE CONTEMPORARY DAYTON
Preview Party
Friday, February 13, 2026 5:30–7 pm
Tickets: $135 per duo. Guests enjoy early access to purchase artworks before the public sale.
Live Sale Event
Friday, February 13, 2026 7–9 pm
Tickets: $35 per person
Sale Event Continues
Saturday, February 14, 2026, 11 am-6 pm
Free & Open to all. Any unsold artworks from In Small Measure will be available to purchase by the public.
Tickets for both events go on sale December 1, 2025 at codayton.org. All participating artists will receive two complimentary tickets to the Live Sale Event and may purchase discounted Preview Party tickets for $50 per person.
More than just a fundraising event, In Small Measure represents The Contemporary Dayton’s unwavering commitment to the city of Dayton and its artistic community. By placing artists at the forefront of the event, The Contemporary Dayton is creating a platform that celebrates creativity and contributes to the economic empowerment of local and regional artists. The proceeds generated from the event will go directly to supporting The Co’s ongoing exhibitions, educational programs, and artist development initiatives, ensuring that the arts remain a vital part of Dayton’s cultural landscape.
Funds raised through In Small Measure directly support The Contemporary Dayton’s mission to champion emerging, mid-career, and historically underrepresented artists, especially those addressing urgent social issues, while ensuring that all exhibitions and programs remain free and open to the public. Through its exhibitions, artist talks, publications, and digital archive, The Contemporary Dayton amplifies artists’ voices, fosters inclusive dialogue, and connects Ohio to the national and global contemporary art landscape.
All participants must complete the Online Submission Form.
Postmark Deadline: Feb. 1, 2026
In-person Drop-off Deadline: Feb. 4, 2026
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR 2025-2026 OPERATING SUPPORT DONORS
The Wiletha McGuire Family, The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Culture Works, The Dayton Foundation, The Montgomery County Arts & Cultural District, The National Endowment for the Arts, The Ohio Arts Council, The Virginia W. Kettering Foundation, and our Members.