As fall unfolds, the Dixon continues its tradition of rotating engaging exhibitions in the galleries, showing off fall color in the gardens, and welcoming all visitors with free admission. This season brings a rare piece of printingmaking history, local artwork, and interactive experiences.
“L’Estampe originale: A Graphic Treasure”, on view through Jan. 11, 2026
On view in Dixon’s main galleries, “L’Estampe originale: A Graphic Treasure” offers visitors an opportunity to experience one of only six known complete printmaking portfolios of its kind. This exhibition features 95 works of graphic art by 74 influential artists from France, Switzerland, Belgium, and the United States, representing every late 19th-century style, from Impressionism to Symbolism to Art Nouveau.
In the mid-1890s, Parisian publisher André Marty issued “L’Estampe originale”, a groundbreaking portfolio of prints that highlighted the vibrant colors and textures of the graphic arts. Released in nine quarterly installments of 100 copies each, these prints made cutting-edge art more accessible to the public. Though its run was brief, “L’Estampe originale” stands as one of the greatest achievements in the history of printmaking. In a spirit of true collaboration, the portfolio brought together experimental works by innovative artists of the 1890s, including Paul Gauguin, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Félix Vallotton, and James McNeill Whistler.
“From Paris to the Prairie: The George H. Booth II Gift to the Dixon Gallery and Gardens”, on view through Jan. 11, 2026
Also part of the main gallery space are 11 prints by Impressionist master Pierre-August Renoir, Danish artist Peter Ilsted, and American icons Thomas Hart Benton, Grant Wood, and Rockwell Kent. These works, generously gifted by George H. Booth II of Tupelo, Mississippi, join the Dixon’s permanent collection.
“Mary K VanGieson: Chasing the Ephemeral”, on view through Jan. 4, 2026
In the Mallory and Wurtzburger galleries, which spotlight local and regional artists, is a collection of eco prints made by Mary K VanGieson in “Chasing the Ephemeral.” VanGieson layered organic materials from the Dixon grounds and her own yard between sheets of plain Stonehenge paper. She then manipulated the sheets – combining, tearing, curling, cutting, folding, collaging, and sewing – to create new sculptural pieces. Visitors can attend VanGieson’s Munch and Learn lecture at Dixon on Wednesday, Oct. 29.
“Fiber Arts”, on view through Jan. 11, 2026
The latest exhibit in the Interactive Gallery invites visitors to explore fiber techniques and the tactile artistry of textiles. Featuring weaving, knitting, felting, and sewing, visitors can experience how artists use fiber to tell stories, preserve culture, and experiment. Guests can attend a Munch and Learn about the art of tapestry weaving with artist Jennifer Sargent on Dec. 3.
Newly acquired works
In addition to works from the George H. Booth II collection, Dixon has further expanded itspermanent collection with two exceptional acquisitions, now on view for all to enjoy. During the museum’s annual Curator’s Circle dinner in September, members voted on works of art under consideration for the collection. This year’s winner was American artist Childe Hassam’s 1890 oil painting, “Early Spring, Union Square, New York.” At the end of the evening, an anonymous donor purchased French artist Françoise Gilot’s 1942 oil painting, “Les Couleurs de la mer,” for the collection. Both pieces join more than 2,000 objects – including paintings, sculptures, works on paper, porcelain, and more – in the collection.
Hassam’s first painting in the Dixon’s collection reflects the influence of French Impressionism on American art. Painted soon after his return from Paris, the piece offers a lively street-level view of Union Square and captures the energy of the “new New York.”
Gilot’s work was completed during World War II; a still life of fish, a lemon, and parsley reflects the artist’s introspective response to turbulent times. A rare work by the French modernist, it strengthens the Dixon’s collection of women artists and complements pieces by Braque, Léger, Matisse, and Alma Thomas.
Admission to the Dixon is free for good, making these works accessible to the entire Memphis community. Visit dixon.org to plan your visit!
