During the early 20th twentieth century, Dayton’s arts community was shaped by dedicated artists and advocates who believed that art should be accessible to everyone. Among them was Martha K. Schauer (1889–1985), a painter, educator, arts leader and Flyer alumna whose influence helped cultivate artistic appreciation throughout the city.
Schauer attended Pratt Institute of Design and in 1941 became the first woman to earn a master’s degree from the University of Dayton. Her thesis, “A Program for the Study of Art in a Four Year High School,” is available on eCommons. Schauer was known primarily for her vibrant watercolor paintings, particularly her flower studies and still lifes. Her work often focused on everyday beauty, usually still lifes and landscapes. These paintings were widely appreciated in Dayton and beyond, with some exhibited at institutions such as the Brooklyn Museum of Art, the Ohio Watercolor Society and the Dayton Art Institute.
As an art teacher, Schauer imparted her knowledge to generations of students. She taught art at Stivers High School in Dayton for 47 years and also served as the dean of women. On weekends, she directed the Saturday art school at the Dayton Art Institute. One of Schauer’s most notable students was Milton Caniff, creator of the Steve Canyon comic strip, who paid tribute to her in the comic strip after her passing.
Schauer was part of a group of local artists who advocated for a space to display art in the Dayton area. Their efforts ultimately led to securing initial funding from Julia Carnell to build the Dayton Art Institute. Today, the Dayton Art Institute is still open, and UD students can visit for free with their student ID.
Although many women artists of her era have been overlooked in art history, Schauer’s contributions remind us how vital local artists and educators are to cultural life. Through her art, teaching, writing and leadership, she helped shape Dayton’s creative community and inspire generations of artists and art lovers.
— Nicole Burkett is an art collection specialist in the Marian Library.
