ThursDates at OMCA with Sketchboard Co. Live Figure Drawing & Trivia Night
ThursDates at OMCA | Sketchboard Co. Live Figure Drawing, Trivia Night, DJ Set by Mark DiVita, and Gallery Chats
January 22 from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Adults 18+
Unwind in the gentle pulse of ThursDates at OMCA with a signature cocktail and smooth beats from DJ Mark DiVita, setting the perfect backdrop for a relaxed evening of creativity and connection. This Thursday, make new connections with a “Spaces of Belonging” trivia night in Town Fare, while Sketchboard Co. hosts uninstructed live figure drawing sessions in the Gallery of California Art.
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.
In addition, every ThursDates at OMCA offers a rich gallery experience with 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. A night of discovery, inspiration, and playful exploration awaits, inviting you to linger, connect, and experience the Museum in a new, imaginative way.
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 | Gallery of California History
6:15–7:15 pm Trivia — Spaces of Belonging | Town Fare Café
5:30–7:30 pm DJ Mark DiVita | Town Fare Café
6:35–7:30 pm Sketchboard Co. Live Figure Drawing | Gallery of California History
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.
Renowned across the Bay Area, DJ Mark DiVita has carved a niche as the go-to DJ for events that radiate soulful, sexy, and vibrant energy. With roots in Hip-Hop culture dating back to 1986, when he first discovered its magic as a grade schooler, Mark embodies the essence of a True Skool Hip Hop edu-tainer. His eclectic sounds and captivating sets draw in music lovers from all walks of life, making each event a celebration of unity and rhythm. When he’s not behind the decks, you can find Mark embracing his roles as a devoted father, husband, and creative force in his design studio.
Sponsor
Major support for ThursDates at OMCA is provided by The Oakland Museum Women’s Board.
