ThursDates at OMCA with Sketchboard Co. Live Figure Drawing & Mahjong Game Night
ThursDates at OMCA | Sketchboard Co. Live Figure Drawing and Experimental Dance ft. Paz Hidalgo and Quinn, Mahjong Game Night, DJ Set by China G, and Gallery Chats
January 8 from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Adults 18+
Settle into the warm, after-hours glow of the 2026 ThursDates season with a signature cocktail, laid-back beats from DJ China G, and the kind of unhurried energy that allows connection and creativity to flourish. This Thursday, DJ China G will be setting a groove-worthy atmosphere in Town Fare for a Mahjong (麻将) game night, all while Sketchboard Co. hosts enchanting unrestricted live figure drawing sessions in the Gallery of California Art. Models Paz Hidalgo and Quinn animate each session, bringing gentle butoh dance and experimental movements to their poses.
We welcome all skill levels, including those who have never drawn before and want to try drawing. Art supplies and clipboards will be available for use, and your artwork will be yours to take home or exchange with others. Nude or partially clothed models representing the diversity of the Bay Area will be posing in the galleries for times ranging from 2 to 20 minutes. Since drawing will take place in the galleries, please be mindful of space and bring only the following media from home: sketchbooks (max size 9×12 inches) and pre-sharpened enclosed graphite, charcoal, or conté pencils.
Every ThursDates at OMCA, you can also engage more deeply with the Museum’s galleries through Gallery Chats from 5:30–7:30 pm. Unlike traditional tours, these conversations invite you to ask questions, share perspectives, and engage with OMCA facilitators who blend content expertise with lived experience. Gallery Chats take place in our Special Exhibitions and our Galleries of California Art and History, and are included with Museum and Special Exhibition admission.
Program Schedule:
5–7:30 pm Gallery Chats | Great Hall and the Galleries of California Art and History
5:30–6:15 pm Sketchboard Co. Live Figure Drawing ft. Paz Hidalgo + Quinn | Gallery of California Art
5:30–7:30 pm Mahjong | Town Fare
5:30–7:30 pm DJ China G | Town Fare
6:35–7:30 pm Sketchboard Co. Live Figure Drawing ft. Paz Hidalgo + Quinn | Gallery of California Art
About ThursDates
Every Thursday, January through March, step into OMCA’s warm after-hours glow. Experience a rotating mix of intimate performances, live figure drawing sessions, game nights, and more—designed just for adults. Or sip a signature cocktail and grab a light bite in Town Fare by Michele McQueen, all to a soundtrack of local Oakland artists and DJs.
Whether you’re exploring the Museum with a date, catching up with friends, or are coming solo and looking to meet someone new, you’ll find connection, inspiration, and creative surprises, week after week.
Accessibility
Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) is committed to providing programs that are accessible, welcoming, and inclusive of our community. Wheelchairs, sensory inclusive devices, and additional amenities are available for checkout on a first come, first served basis at the Ticketing Desk. To request other accommodations, like American Sign Language (ASL), Cantonese, Spanish or another language interpreter, please email [email protected] at least three weeks before the event.
Performer BIOS
Sketchboard is a BIPOC figure drawing collective, curating eclectic, diverse, and affordable events in the Bay Area over the last 10 years. Our mission is to feature the bodies of people at the intersection of multiple identities, offer living wages to our art models, and create an inclusive environment for the artists in our community.
DJ China G (Elyssa Pon) is a California native and long-time San Francisco resident who has been a powerhouse in the LGBTQIA+ nightlife scene for over 25 years. An internationally recognized DJ and club promoter, she co-founded and headlined the legendary queer/lesbian party Rebel Girl (2000–2009) and helped manage Cockblock (2016). Her work has earned her features in the San Francisco Bay Guardian and SF Weekly for her contributions to music and community culture.
Sponsor
Major support for ThursDates at OMCA is provided by The Oakland Museum Women’s Board.
