Auxiliary Groups

Get to know the DIA's renowned collection of European paintings. Through focused gallery tours, visits to the DIA's conservation laboratory, lectures, and more, this auxiliary provides behind-the-scenes opportunities, supporting one of the museum's most important collections. The council sponsors one free public lecture each year enabling it to bring a distinguished specialist of international repute to Detroit. To encourage private collecting, as well as foster a greater knowledge of collections nationwide, members travel to other U.S. cities and major international art markets.

Supporting both the General Motors Center for African-American Art and the museum's renowned collection of African Art, the Friends of African and African American Art (FAAAA) is one of the DIA's most active auxiliaries. FAAAA is committed to developing appreciation of African and African-American art and supporting acquisitions in these important areas. The auxiliary organizes lectures and exhibitions that feature both well-established and emerging African-American artists. Since 1964, the group's gala fundraiser, Bal African, has been one of the most anticipated annual events on the DIA calendar.

Join us in promoting appreciation and understanding of works of art from this region’s diverse historical and contemporary cultures. FAAC members enjoy special receptions, gallery tours, workshops and symposia. They also have the opportunity to participate in trips to galleries, museums, and art historical sites in the USA and around the world. FAAC sponsors cultural programs and lectures, and supports acquisitions of art to expand the DIA's permanent collections.

With educational and social programs built around related DIA exhibitions, dinners, lectures, workshops and festive previews, there's enough to keep any graphic arts enthusiast busy and intrigued. Visits to other collections are planned yearly and the group organizes Summer Soirees, a biennial series of events in private homes to raise funds for the purchase of a work on paper for the museum's collection. Members are also given the opportunity to acquire prints and photographs commissioned by FPDP.