The Downtown Artists Co-op is more than just a gallery; it is a vibrant center for cultural exchange and artistic celebration. Throughout the year, we are proud to host a series of signature events that bring together artists, collectors, and the Clarksville community. These gatherings are the heartbeat of our co-op, offering a platform for incredible talent and creating unforgettable experiences for all who attend. From prestigious juried shows to lively fundraisers and collaborative paint-outs, our calendar is designed to inspire and engage.
Our Premier Annual Juried Events
We proudly sponsor three major juried events each year, each dedicated to showcasing excellence in a specific artistic domain. These exhibitions have become pillars of the regional arts calendar, drawing submissions from talented artists and attracting visitors from across the area. They represent a fantastic opportunity for artists to gain recognition and for the public to witness the very best of contemporary art.
Our annual events provide a structured and exciting calendar for the arts community. Below is a summary of our three cornerstone exhibitions that artists and art lovers can look forward to each year.
- Regional Juried Photography Exposition (February): Kicking off the year, this event celebrates the power of the photographic image. We welcome submissions spanning all styles, from classic black-and-white prints to contemporary digital art and experimental processes. It’s a chance for photographers to share their unique perspectives and for viewers to see the world through a new lens. Entries are typically due in the last week of January, with an awards reception held on the first Thursday of February.
- Annual Art Auction and Fundraiser (April): A highlight of the spring season, our annual auction is a lively and essential event that supports the future of the DAC. This fundraiser allows us to continue our mission of promoting the visual arts in Clarksville. It’s a wonderful opportunity for patrons and collectors to acquire unique, original pieces from our talented member artists while directly contributing to the cultural vitality of our community.
Polish players can directly access the Gra Plinko.
- Regional Juried Art Exposition (August): Our largest and most comprehensive exhibition, this summer event invites artists working in all media to submit their best work. The exposition is organized into six distinct categories, offering a broad platform for artistic expression. With monetary awards and a reputation for excellence, this juried show is a prestigious showcase of the finest art in the region.
Each of these events culminates in a public reception and awards ceremony, turning our gallery into a bustling hub of conversation, celebration, and appreciation. We encourage artists to prepare their submissions according to the prospectus for each event and invite art lovers to mark their calendars for these can’t-miss celebrations of creativity.
Community Collaborations and Happenings
Beyond our core juried shows, the DAC is an active participant in the wider arts community. We believe in the power of collaboration to create dynamic and inclusive experiences. One of our favorite annual collaborations is the 2Rivers Paint-Out, held during the third weekend in October. This plein air painting event is a wonderful partnership between the DAC, the Clarksville/Montgomery County Arts & Heritage Development Council, and the Two Rivers Painters. It invites artists to capture the beauty of our local landscapes outdoors and share their work with the public.
These partnerships allow us to expand our reach and offer even more diverse programming. We encourage you to stay connected with us for information on these and other special events that pop up throughout the year.