The DIA is home to many works of arms and armor from the 1500s. But how did these metallic works of art intersect with the sophisticated fencing systems of their day, and how did their wielders learn and practice their skills? Dr. Daniel Jaquet, an internationally recognized educator, curator, and swordsman, will present a twenty-minute lecture on fencing schools in Renaissance cities and the art and science of longsword fencing, sharing images from skillfully illustrated manuscripts used by swordsmen to transmit their knowledge.

After the talk, Dr. Jaquet will lead six 30-minute mini-lessons, each open to six participants. Participants will learn the basic stances and foundational movements of Renaissance longsword fencing using blunt training swords modeled after historical longswords. These exercises will emphasize careful and precise movement and will be practiced individually, with no sparring or swordplay between participants.

This fun and informative hands-on experience is suitable for families and young visitors ages 10 and up! Participants under 12 must be signed up with a parent or guardian.

Those interested in a mini-lesson should register for their preferred time and get a free ticket for admission to the temporary DIA fencing academy in the Great Hall.

Travel through the many different and beautiful regions of Mexico with Ballet Folklorico de Detroit, a community group of passionate dancers who dedicate their time and talent to preserve Mexican culture and traditions through dance.

With each style of dress, music, and footwork showcased in every performance, the dancers aim to delight viewers and ignite a spark of interest in, and respect for, Mexican culture.

After the performance, don’t miss the 11th installment of Ofrendas: Celebrating el Día de Muertos, running through November 5, 2023. Free with museum admission. 

All educators are welcome to experience a rejuvenating yoga or mindfulness session in historic Rivera Court. Art-making opportunities and a complimentary smoothie bar will be provided.
 

All educators are welcome to experience a rejuvenating yoga or mindfulness session in the historic Rivera Court. Art-making opportunities and a complimentary smoothie bar will be provided.

No experience necessary.

Participants will learn about everything the DIA offers educators, including workshops, learning resources, field trips, and more! Joe Leach, Robert H. N. Ho Family Foundation Buddhism Public Scholar, will join us to discuss the importance of teaching about religious traditions with art objects. A new learning resource exploring Buddhist traditions will be introduced, and a forthcoming field trip, Objects of Devotion, will be previewed.

Objects of Devotion: Engaging with sacred objects can reveal complex stories about the devotional practices from which they emerge. This tour gives students opportunities to broaden their understanding of diverse devotional and religious traditions across the world.

All educators welcome. SCECHs pending.
 

Educators working with pre-K through second grade groups are invited to learn more about how the DIA can support young learners. Learning resources and engagement strategies will be modeled and discussed.

All educators welcome. SCECHs pending.
 

Participants will learn about what the DIA offers educators, experience a model field trip highlighting the work of women in the DIA’s collection, and experience a guided art-making session in the DIA Studio. Dr. Chassica Kirchhoff, the DIA's Assistant Curator of European Sculpture & Decorative Arts, will give a presentation. 

All educators welcome. SCECHs pending.
 

Participants will experience the Africana field trip and explore the special exhibition Regeneration: Black Cinema, 1898–1971. Learning resources designed to support Regeneration will be discussed and a guided art-making session in the DIA Studio will be offered.

All educators welcome. SCECHs pending.
 

All educators are welcome to experience a rejuvenating yoga or mindfulness session in historic Rivera Court. Art-making opportunities and a complimentary smoothie bar will be provided.
 

Create a pencil drawing to take home while taking a closer look at the collection.

No experience is necessary. All supplies provided.

For ages 6 and up (children ages 12 and younger should be accompanied by an adult). Capacity is limited.