“I know I’m taking liberty of requesting the painting for The Dayton Art Institute in the event that you would consider giving it to a museum outside the New York area,” Seaver pleaded.
Rubin wrote back to say that he would be pleased to give the special painting to the DAI. The rest is history, a significant milestone in the history of a museum currently celebrating 90 years.
The first of a series of special events highlighting the 90th anniversary year is slated for Saturday, July 18, and will revolve around that Monet, arguably one of the museum’s most notable possessions.
A free program on water gardens and plants designed to tie in with the painting will be held Saturday, July 18.
Patty Woodbury, a member of the Miami Valley Water Garden Society, says the group will offer a power point presentation showcasing the variety of water gardens in our area.
“The sound and relaxation you get from a water garden are soothing,” says Woodbury, whose water lilies and lotuses are now blooming in her own garden.
Steve Blessing, owner of Green Vista Water Gardens of Springfield, will provide information on specific plants and a panel of gardeners will answer questions.
“Waterlilies” is one of 90 pieces being showcased to bring attention to the DAI’s permanent collection.
The exhibit, “90 Treasures: From the Collection of the Dayton Art Institute,” focuses on 90 pieces throughout the museum that have been chosen by chief curator Will South and three other invited experts. It will be on display through the end of the year.
The pieces are prominently marked, free docent tours are available for added insights, so are cell phone explanations for many of the pieces.
The upcoming programs are tied to the theme of one of the 90 treasures. They include:
• “Colima Dog,” a celebration of the “dog days” of summer being held from 1-3 p.m. Aug. 8.
In conjunction with The Humane Society of Greater Dayton, the DAI will host a gallery hunt, a hands-on art project and showcase adoptable pets.
• “African Slit Gong, Lobala People,” a drum and African dance demonstration slated from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Aug. 15.
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2440 or mmoss@DaytonDailyNews.com.
Dayton Art Institute program
What: Water gardens and plants with the Miami Valley Water Gardening Society and Green Vista Water Gardens of Springfield
When: Noon to 2 p.m., Saturday, July 18
Where: Italian Cloister, Dayton Art Institute
Admission: Free
More information about this program and the exhibit, visit www.daytonartinstitute.org or call (937) 223-5277