CINCINNATI, OH – A special art exhibition honoring the late Anthony “Tony” Dotson will open this May, celebrating the remarkable life and legacy of one of Cincinnati’s most iconic self-taught artists. Titled “Tony Dotson: A Retrospective,” the exhibition is curated by Andrew VanSickle and Noah Beiting. The exhibition will debut with a Media Preview on Thursday, May 7, from 6-9pm, followed by an Opening Night Celebration on Friday, May 8, from 6-9pm at Sample Space, located at 8 East Fourth Street.

The gallery will be open to the public on Saturday, May 9 and Sunday, May 10 (12-5pm), with additional evening hours on Friday, May 15 (6-9pm). Final public viewing hours will take place Saturday, May 16 (12-5pm). 

Produced by AGAR, this retrospective will feature nearly 100 works of art on display and available for purchase, offering a rare and powerful glimpse into Dotson’s prolific body of work. Special thanks go to Tony’s family, friends, and collectors for their input and generosity in sharing access to this expansive collection.

A true original and recognized leader in the Outsider art world, Dotson began creating art in 1998, inspired by legendary folk artist Mose Tolliver. Over the course of his life, he produced nearly 5,000 works – a staggering output reflecting both his creative energy and resourcefulness. Much of his work was built from the everyday: toys, blocks, rulers, and found objects became the foundation for vibrant compositions and sculptural pieces that radiate playfulness, heart, and a reflection of contemporary life.

Born on April 14, 1971, Dotson spent 15 years in Cincinnati’s music scene managing iconic venues such as Bogart’s, Taft Theatre, and Riverbend before turning to art full-time. His practice blended bold house paint on wood with mixed media assemblages and recurring characters like Batman, Bigfoot, and King Kong. Drawing influence from Mose Tolliver, Keith Haring, and R.A. Miller, his work gained national recognition and was featured in more than 100 exhibitions across the United States.

Dotson was a dedicated member of the Visionaries + Voices community for nearly two decades, contributing regularly to its annual auction, volunteering his time, and collaborating with fellow artists including Courttney Cooper and Kevin White. Through this work, he formed meaningful creative partnerships and lasting friendships that became central to both his artistic journey and personal life.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dotson was a devoted father to his three children, who remained his proudest and most cherished legacy.

“Tony and I were friends for over 20 years, and we were competitive artists right from the start,” said contemporary Andrew VanSickle. “We collaborated on many paintings and shared a deep connection to the mission of Visionaries + Voices. Tony had a rare ability to distill complex ideas into simple brilliance, turning them into bold color fields and expressive lines. This retrospective brings his artistic power fully into view and stands as one of the most anticipated exhibitions in Cincinnati this year. His legacy will continue to inspire artists and collectors for generations to come.”

“Tony Dotson: A Retrospective” celebrates an artist who saw beauty in the overlooked, made magic out of the discarded, and inspired countless others through his vision and generosity.

Media Preview: Thursday, May 7, 2026 – Register Here

Opening Reception: Friday, May 8, 2026 – RSVP Here

Location: Sample Space | 8 East Fourth Street, Cincinnati, OH

Public Exhibition Hours: Saturday, May 9 – Sunday, May 10 | 12-5pm; Friday, May 15 | 6-9pm; and Saturday, May 16 | 12-5pm