History and art go hand in hand in Southern Ohio. Several cities boast some of the oldest art institutions in the country, from Cincinnati’s contemporary art scene to the Dayton Ballet. Along with traditions like the Gallery Hop in Columbus and the mural paintings of Warren and Clinton counties, groups can choose from a host of unique art-related experiences.
Cincinnati
Art is deeply rooted in Cincinnati’s history and daily life, from the historic Art Deco, Gothic and Italianate architecture to sites like the Taft Museum of Art and the Contemporary Arts Center.
“Everything has a story in Cincinnati, everything’s connected,” says Barrie Perks, vice president of sales and services for the Cincinnati USA CVB. “Many cities have torn down their historic buildings, but this city was committed to preserving its architecture.”
Indeed, the Over-the-Rhine district, which includes Main Street and Washington Park, is one of the largest historic neighborhoods of Italianate architecture, and is consistently in demand as a film and television location. Large-scale murals also decorate the city, and tours involving both the art and architecture are available to groups.
“We have incredible murals,” says Perks. “You’re tempted to go up to a four-story building and pick an apple, it looks so real.”
Traditional venues like the Taft Museum of Art, itself listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the Contemporary Arts Center, one of the first museums in the country dedicated to Modern art, make irresistible sites for meetings and events. The historic Cincinnati Art Museum also welcomes groups, and the main lobby is accented with a cobalt blue sculpture by noted glass artist Dale Chihuly.
For something offbeat, planners can seek out the American Sign Museum, a facility filled with true Americana and brightly lit with neon signs of decades past.
“It’s a fun place, and you’ll see all the signs you grew up with,” Perks says. “There’s also the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum at the Great American Ballpark, where you can pitch a ball and test your skill against the pros.”
The historic Fountain Square has always been central to downtown Cincinnati life, and since its renovation a few years ago it’s more relevant than ever with a full slate of special events, all completely free. The square is three blocks from the Duke Energy Convention Center, and in the summertime people converge at the square for salsa dancing, jazz night, live performances and more. Taking part in events at the square gives attendees a fun introduction into the local culture, and the price is right.
Columbus
“The arts are incredibly important to Columbus,” says Megumi Robinson, associate director of public relations for the Greater Columbus CVB. “They enrich the visitor and resident experience.”
Columbus prides itself on its diverse cultural options. The Short North Arts District features several galleries and the popular Gallery Hop on the first Saturday of each month, a gallery walk featuring street performers, refreshments and special exhibitions. There are also more than 100 entertainment options within walking distance of the Greater Columbus Convention Center, including shows for every taste, from comedy to experimental theater.
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“If you like jazz, ballet or are a theater fan, we have it in Columbus,” says Robinson.
One of the most striking venues for groups is the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, which features a stunning collection by Dale Chihuly and an outdoor light installation by noted light artist James Turrell. The evening light show is the perfect complement to a dinner or event at the facility. Another must-see is the Pizzuti Collection, a museum of modern art just a short walk from the convention center.
For more striking pieces from the Pizzuti Collection, attendees can tour the nearby Le Meridien Columbus, The Joseph, a new boutique hotel brimming with artworks. Another development in the works is the addition of a new wing at the Columbus Museum of Art, which will include expanded exhibition space, a sculpture garden, a new restaurant and new special event space. The project is slated for completion by October, and the museum will be open throughout construction.
Dayton
“Dayton’s thriving arts and culture scene is a direct reflection of the creative and innovative spirit that is a part of our past, present and future,” says Jacquelyn Y. Powell, president and CEO of the Dayton CVB.
From performing arts institutions, such as the Dayton Ballet, which is the country’s second-oldest ballet company, to museums like the Dayton Art Institute and Dayton Visual Arts Center, the city offers up a full plate of cultural goodies for attendees. Planners can select an evening outing at one of several playhouses and theaters, or enjoy a performance by the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, which has been featured in The New York Times. Add in a night at the opera or the Dayton Philharmonic, and groups will have a full, rich experience in the Dayton arts scene. The CVB can also arrange special events for groups as well.
“Dayton’s numerous stunning arts and cultural venues lend themselves to special group experiences,” says Powell. “The CVB has coordinated events as diverse as ‘Wine, Chocolate and Yoga,’ or a private dinner, backstage tour and a Broadway show.”
Warren County
Known primarily for amusement parks, such as the Great Wolf Lodge Cincinnati/Mason with its indoor waterpark, and adventure spots like Kings Island and the Ozone Zipline, the region between Dayton and Cincinnati also has a heart for the arts. In Springboro, La Comedia entertains audiences as one of the largest professional dinner theaters in the country, while the Lebanon Theatre Company and Lebanon Grand Opry House offer a taste of down-home entertainment.
Lebanon and nearby Waynesville, known as top antiquing destinations, also feature several art galleries with works by local and national talent. For a larger canvas, pop over to Franklin, known as the City of Murals. Ten murals by nationally recognized muralist Eric Henn are featured on buildings throughout downtown, and depict the city’s history.
Clinton County
Located northeast of Cincinnati, the community of Wilmington and surrounding Clinton County have several art-related activities and venues, including the stately 1914 Murphy Theatre, which entertains concerts as well as group activities, and the Hugh G. Heiland Theatre at Wilmington College, which presents performances of live theater, music and other events.
For something more hands-on, attendees can watch pottery being made at Grandpa’s Pottery, or enjoy the galleries, shops and historic murals in downtown Wilmington, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
CAROLYN BLACKBURN is a frequent contributor to Meetings Focus.
