Introducing the 2026 Exhibition Theme
As we planned our exhibitions for 2026, the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the DAI team and a panel of regional arts professionals asked one powerful question: What is American art?
We reached a clear conclusion: American identity holds many truths—complex, diverse, and sometimes contradictory—and art uniquely expresses every story, perspective, challenge, and hope that shapes our nation’s past and present.
In 2026, we invite you to explore these truths with us. Throughout the year, we’ll host exhibitions, classes, and programs that celebrate the many facets of American art and identity.
Reflect, create, and share with us: What does your truth look like?
Exhibition Schedule
Q1: Truths of Culture and History
On view January 12–April 3, 2026
Fur Trade Nation: An Ojibwe’s Graphic History
Carl Gawboy
Ojibwe Adornment In Ribbons, Cloth, Beads, and Fur
Wendy Savage
Part of our 2026 “We Hold These Truths” programming.
Funding provided by the Minnesota Humanities Center and the National Endowment for the Arts
Q2: Truths of Community
2026 Annual Member Show
Theme: We Hold These Truths
Part of our 2026 “We Hold These Truths” programming.
Funding provided by the National Endowment for the Arts
Q3: Truths of Visual Language
Ish Meets a Mermaid
Jonathan Thunder, Vera Bianchini, Camila Guillen
Send Flowers
Cody Paulson and Stephen Pestalozzi
Part of our 2026 “We Hold These Truths” programming.
Funding provided by the National Endowment for the Arts
Q4: Truths of Self and Materials
Material Driven
Andrew Webster
Applied Pressure
Robb Quisling
Rooted
Lauren Faherty
Part of our 2026 “We Hold These Truths” programming.
Funding provided by the National Endowment for the Arts
We Hold These Truths Events and Classes
Events
Beginning Watercolor with Diane Levar
Follow experienced artist and teacher Diane Levar through a variety of brush techniques in watercolor, culminating in creating a bound booklet you can take home. Designed for the absolute beginner, but all levels welcome. Paint…
Beaded Earring Workshop with Tashia Hart
Learn the art of handcrafted beadwork while creating your own pair of beaded earrings. Participants will be introduced to essential beading techniques, design principles, color selection, and finishing methods. This beginner-friendly workshop welcomes all experience…
Create Your Own Earrings with Airlea Defoe
Create your own pair of mini fringe beaded earrings in this three-hour workshop! Participants will use brick stitch techniques to create colorful triangle designs with delicate fringe. Each participant will leave with a finished pair…
Winter Landscapes with Karen Savage
Winter landscapes have a serene quality that captivates the imagination. The quiet stillness evokes a sense of peace portraying the beauty of nature in its purest form. The combination of snow-covered ground and pine trees…
Thank You to Our 2026 Exhibition Advisory Panel
Christina Woods, Deb Eagle, Tia Keobounpheng, Paul LaJeunesse, Wendy Savage, Jesse Switters, Madeline Kayser, Aurora Webster, Meg Litts, Robb Quisling, Jonathan Thunder, Sam Zimmerman