The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) is one of the largest and most renowned art museums in the United States. It is home to a world-class collection of more than 100,000 works spanning centuries and cultures. In addition to its permanent collection, the DIA also hosts special exhibitions, workshops, and activities throughout the year.

This summer, there are plenty to enjoy at the DIA. Here are just a few of the highlights:

Wayne County High School Art Exhibition

June 25 – July 31, 2022

The “Wayne County High School Art Exhibition” is definitely worth checking out. This juried exhibition celebrates the outstanding work of high school students from throughout Wayne County, and it’s packed with imaginative works created by the county’s emerging artists. The exhibition is on view on the first floor in the Wayne and Joan Webber Education.

Conscious Response: Photographers Changing the Way We See

July 22, 2022–January 8, 2023

“Conscious Response: Photographers Changing the Way We See” explores the history of visual storytelling and image making as seen through the eyes of artists who have used photography to record and reflect upon human experiences that impact the work they make and our perceptions of the world. It features black-and-white and color photographs from the 1950s to the present day.

The exhibit focuses on the many extraordinary gifts and other recent acquisitions made by the DIA and never before on view. These works reflect a diversity of perspectives and subjects matter, offering visitors a chance to engage with a wide range of issues and experiences.

Drop-In Workshops

The Detroit Institute of Arts offers “Drop-In Workshops” for visitors of all ages. The workshops allow visitors to explore their creativity and learn new skills. These workshops are perfect for kids, and for a whole-family weekend. This month, the institute is offering a variety of workshops, including:

“Rhythmic Ribbon Batons” | July 2–3, 2022 at 12:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Learn how to make a simple version of a ribbon baton using paper, ribbon and decorative tapes in this workshop. Ribbon batons are used in floor exercises for gymnastics and dance. 

“Initial Tiles” | July 8, 2022 at 6:00–8:30 p.m.  | July 9–10, 2022 at 12:00–4:00 p.m.

In this workshop, you’ll learn how to use your own initials and embellish it with colorful art materials to create a unique artwork to take home.

“Container Rattles” | July 23–24, 2022 at 12:00–4:00 p.m.

Learn how to morph small containers and boxes into percussion instruments by just using dried beans, rice, feathers and fun papers.

“Bug Puppets” | July 30–31, 2022 at 12:00–4:00 p.m.

Discover how a foam board, toothpicks, pipe cleaners and beads can turn into fantastic bug puppets on a stick.

Drawing in the Galleries

Want to unleash your inner artist? “Drawing in the Galleries” offers a great way to do just that! You can take a closer look at the DIA’s collection while creating a pencil drawing to take home. All supplies are provided, and no experience is necessary. This program is open for anyone ages six and above, including adults. DIA asks that children ages 12 and younger should be accompanied by an adult.

• “European, British & Decorative Arts” | July 1, 2022 at 6:00–8:30 p.m.
• “Medieval & Renaissance Galleries” | July 15, 2022 at 6:00–8:30 p.m.
• “Arts of Africa” | July 22, 2022 at 6:00–8:30 p.m.