The Figge Art Museum in Davenport, Iowa, is thrilled to announce the unveiling of its newly established John Deere Gallery, a dedicated space showcasing captivating artworks from the renowned John Deere Art Collection. For the first time, many of these significant pieces, previously enjoyed primarily within John Deere’s corporate environment, are now accessible to the public, offering a unique cultural experience for art enthusiasts and the community alike.
This exciting development signifies a deepened partnership between the Figge Art Museum and John Deere, two institutions deeply rooted in the Quad Cities. Their shared commitment to enriching the community through art and culture is brought to life through this dedicated gallery. Neil Dahlstrom, John Deere’s Branded Properties & Heritage Manager, emphasizes the significance of this collaboration: “This partnership between the Figge Art Museum and John Deere signifies the power of partnerships rooted in shared values. It’s an opportunity to celebrate art that reflects our community’s rich cultural history while engaging visitors with diverse artistic voices.”
The John Deere Art Collection, a testament to the forward-thinking vision of former CEO William A. Hewitt, was established in 1965. Hewitt’s passion for art transcended boundaries, leading to a collection that embraces both international and modern art movements, alongside iconic American masterpieces. Among the collection’s gems is Grant Wood’s celebrated painting, Fall Plowing. Widely recognized as one of Wood’s most important works, Fall Plowing has graced the walls of prestigious museums worldwide, including the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York and the Kunsthalle Mannheim in Germany. The John Deere Gallery will feature rotating selections from this diverse collection, ensuring repeat visitors will always find something new and inspiring to discover. Artworks from the collection will also be integrated into other galleries throughout the museum, creating a dynamic and evolving art experience.
Melissa Mohr, Executive Director & CEO of the Figge Art Museum, highlights the core mission of the museum and how this new gallery enhances its purpose. “This partnership exemplifies what the Figge is all about: connecting art and people in ways that engage and enrich our community,” she states. “We are thrilled to bring these extraordinary works to our galleries, sharing them with visitors from the Quad Cities and beyond.”
The John Deere Gallery offers a compelling narrative about the intersection of art, industry, and culture. By presenting artworks that reflect both global artistic trends and the rich heritage of the Quad Cities region, the Figge Art Museum and John Deere illuminate the powerful ways art can spark creativity, celebrate history, and connect people from diverse backgrounds. Vanessa Sage, Co-Senior Curator at the Figge, further elaborates on the historical context: “The John Deere Art Collection offers a glimpse into an era when art, business, and culture intersected in powerful ways. We are delighted that John Deere has chosen to share its collection with the Figge, ensuring that it continues to inspire and enrich the lives of people in this region.”
To celebrate the grand opening of the John Deere Gallery, the public is warmly invited to participate in two special, free events at the Figge Art Museum:
- John Deere Art Collection Celebration – Thursday, February 6: Enjoy an engaging evening filled with conversation, light refreshments, and insightful remarks from Melissa Mohr and Neil Dahlstrom. The event will take place from 5:00 PM, with a bar and light bites available, followed by remarks at 6:30 PM. Admission is free for all.
- Second Saturday – Saturday, February 8: Experience a full day of free admission to the museum, along with hands-on art activities and family-friendly programs specially designed around the John Deere Collection. This is a perfect opportunity for families to explore the new gallery and engage with art in a fun and interactive way.
As the Figge Art Museum commemorates its centennial year, the inauguration of the John Deere Gallery underscores its ongoing commitment to building strong partnerships that bring exceptional cultural opportunities to the community it serves. Through increased access to world-class art and enriching educational programs, the Figge Art Museum continues to stand as a vital cultural landmark in the Quad Cities and beyond.
About the Figge Art Museum:
Located in a striking David Chipperfield-designed building on the banks of the Mississippi River in downtown Davenport, the Figge Art Museum is a leading art institution between Chicago and Des Moines. The museum houses an impressive collection and presents a diverse range of world-class exhibitions, art classes, lectures, and special events for visitors of all ages. The Figge Art Museum is located at 225 West Second Street, Davenport, Iowa. Museum hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Reservations are not required but can be made online at www.figgeartmuseum.org or by phone at 563.345.6632. Admission is $14 for adults, $10 for seniors and students with ID, and $8 for children ages 4-12. Admission is free for Figge members, institutional members, and on Thursday evenings. Information on membership, starting from $60, is available on the Figge website. For general inquiries, please call 563.326.7804 or visit www.figgeartmuseum.org.
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