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 The Figge Art Museum Announces the John Deere Gallery, Showcasing Rarely Seen Works of Art

Davenport, Iowa (February 4, 2025) — The Figge Art Museum proudly announces the opening of the newly named John Deere Gallery, featuring selections from the remarkable John Deere Art Collection. Visitors to the museum will have the opportunity to experience these internationally significant works of art, many of which were previously accessible only within John Deere’s corporate facilities.

The Figge and John Deere have a long history of collaboration, and this latest endeavor underscores their shared commitment to making art accessible. Neil Dahlstrom, John Deere Branded Properties & Heritage Manager said, “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, established in 1965 by visionary CEO William A. Hewitt, reflects his bold and innovative spirit, embracing international and modern art movements alongside iconic American works, like Grant Wood’s Fall Plowing. Considered one of Wood’s masterpieces, Fall Plowing has been exhibited at top museums around the world, such as the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City and the Kunsthalle Mannheim in Germany. Artworks from the collection will regularly rotate through the John Deere Gallery and other galleries within the museum, ensuring fresh opportunities for discovery and inspiration.

“This partnership exemplifies what the Figge is all about: connecting art and people in ways that engage and enrich our community,” said Melissa Mohr, Executive Director & CEO of the Figge Art Museum. “We are thrilled to bring these extraordinary works to our galleries, sharing them with visitors from the Quad Cities and beyond.”

The opportunity to share works from John Deere’s Art Collection deepens the museum’s ability to tell meaningful stories about the intersection of art, industry, and culture. By featuring works that reflect both global artistic movements and the history of the region, this partnership demonstrates how art can inspire creativity, honor heritage, and connect audiences with diverse perspectives.

“The John Deere Art Collection offers a glimpse into an era when art, business, and culture intersected in powerful ways,” said Figge Co-Senior Curator, Vanessa Sage. “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.”

The public is invited to celebrate the gallery’s opening at two free events:

• John Deere Art Collection Celebration – Thursday, February 6: An evening of conversation, light bites, and remarks by Melissa Mohr and Neil Dahlstrom. (5:00 PM | Bar & Light Bites | 6:30 PM Remarks | Free Event)
• Second Saturday – Saturday, February 8: A full day of free admission, hands-on activities, and family-friendly programming centered on the John Deere Collection.

As the Figge Art Museum enters its 100th year, the naming of the John Deere Gallery reflects the museum’s dedication to fostering meaningful partnerships that bring exceptional opportunities to the community. By creating access to world-class art and educational programming, the Figge continues to serve as a cultural cornerstone for the Quad Cities.

About the Figge Art Museum:
The Figge Art Museum is dedicated to bringing art and people together. Located on the Mississippi River in downtown Davenport at 225 West Second Street, downtown Davenport at 225 West Second Street, the Figge is the premier art exhibition and education facility between Chicago and Des Moines. Its landmark glass building, designed by British architect David Chipperfield, is home to one of the Midwest’s finest art collections and presents world-class exhibitions, art classes, lectures, and special events that attract visitors of all ages. Museum hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on Thursdays; and 12-5 p.m. on Sundays. Reservations are not required but can be made at www.figgeartmuseum.org or by calling 563.345.6632. Admission to the museum is $14 for adults, $10 for seniors and students with ID and $8 for children ages 4-12. Admission is free to Figge members and institutional members and to all on Thursday evenings. You can become a member for as little as $60 by visiting the Figge website. To contact the museum, please call 563.326.7804, or visit www.figgeartmuseum.org.   

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