January. A cold, dreary month. The bright festivity of the holiday season waning. The pandemic restrictions that confine us to our homes persisting. The feeling of “stuckness” lingering. The temptation to stay in bed and binge netflix ever increasing. The list goes on. Fighting the gloom of such a season can feel daunting, and so the Dixon Gallery and Gardens might be just the ticket for you. 

A Hidden Jewel

The Dixon is truly a rare gem among cultural epicenters. It boasts an impressive collection of artwork that spans centuries and continents. Numerous display rooms showcase a variety of mediums—pottery, glassware, oil paintings, sculptures—that capture the imagination. The permanent collection features the work of some of the greatest masters of all time, including Edgar Degas, Claude Monet, and Mary Cassatt. Despite its impressive lineup, these masterpieces are housed not in a magnificent gallery, but rather a semi-modest, refurbished home hidden in a residential area. In the 1970s, philanthropists Margaret and Hugo Dixon bequeathed their neo-Georgian home along with their art collection for the enjoyment and education of local Memphians. The unconventional space creates a charming atmosphere as you peruse the art collection, making the Dixon a truly unique experience.  

Escape the Mundane

Paintings have given us some of the greatest stories ever told, and so the power of the Gallery and Gardens lies in its ability to transport you outside of your immediate context. The Dixon sparks the imagination and engages the senses. In the midst of an occasionally dull world, beauty prevails here. As you walk through the collection, the diversity of art and artists demands your attention. Local artists tell the story of our city, offering keen insights into current circumstances. Others delve into the depths of the human psyche. International masters showcase their innovation and give us a glimpse into their world. True to their purpose, these pieces of art may calm you, challenge your ideologies, cause you to weep, or mesmerize you. 

The Dixon offers an opportunity to engage perspectives and ideas that transcend cultural boundaries and time limitations. It strikes to the heart of the mundane. If you are looking for an opportunity to escape your daily routine, block off a few hours to visit the Dixon and expect to be inspired by the magnificent works on display. 

Photos via Dixon Gallery & Gardens