About
ThursDates at OMCA | Sketchboard Co. Live Figure Drawing ft. Burlesque Performances, Trivia Night: Stories of Resilience, DJ Set by Mark DiVita, and Gallery Chats
Adults 18+
Step into ThursDates at OMCA and let the evening unfold at the pace of connection. In Town Fare, DJ Mark DiVita sets the atmosphere with incredible grooves perfect for cocktails and conversation. Guests are invited to test their wits with Trivia Night: Stories of Resilience, celebrating creativity, community, and unexpected insights.
Meanwhile, the Gallery of California History comes alive with Sketchboard Co.’s uninstructed live figure drawing sessions, where models Andy Rose and Kitty KaPowww will interweave spellbinding burlesque performances between 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.
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 all of our galleries—including our Special Exhibitions—and are included with Museum and Special Exhibition admission. With music, drinks, and a relaxed after-hours atmosphere, it’s an evening designed for learning, laughter, and basking in good company.
Program Schedule:
5:30–6:15 pm Sketchboard Co. Live Figure Drawing ft. Andy Rose + Kitty KaPowww | Gallery of California History
5:30–7:30 pm Gallery Chats | All Galleries
5:30–7:30 pm DJ Mark DiVita | Town Fare
6:15–7:15 pm Trivia Night: Stories of Resilience | Town Fare
6:35–7:30 pm Sketchboard Co. Live Figure Drawing & Art Viewing | 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.
