Let's RECYCLE!!

A thought that's been on my mind for quite some time is that of recycling paper, aluminum, plastic, etc. I've found a place here in Jackson, TN where you can take soda cans to be recycled (I've received as much at $18.00 for one bunch of cans I took to be recycled).
Anyway, I've just found a place here in town we can take all paper products and plastics.
Check this out: Southeast Recycled Fiber
They're located off of Royal Street just East of the Railroad Depot. Click on the link above for directions. I called and spoke to them today, turns out they take all types of paper and plastic which can be dropped off to them Monday thru Friday from 7:30a until 4:00p. Cans can be taken to Hutcherson Metals off of East Chester Street.
DID YOU KNOW? Each ton of recycled newspaper saves 3.5 cubic yards of landfill space.

· Recycling aluminum cans saves 95% of the energy needed to produce new cans from raw materials

· For every 14,000 plastic bottles and jugs recycled, we save 5.65 cubic yards of landfill space

· Recycling steel (tin) cans saves 60 % of the energy needed to produce new cans from raw materials

We can change the world...one step at a time.
Happiness,
Rachel

Jazz on the Green!!

ok...so first of all...Today's (April 18th) my BIRThDAY!!! the big 35 today!!!
Hurray for me!!!
so I just had to go to Lambuth's campus at noon today and check out their Jazz ensemble's performance (scheduled to be on the green, but it was threatening to rain so they moved into the campus coffee house)...and can I just say...FABULOUS!!!! Probably the best birthday present to myself I could have given. ;-)
Watch for potential future events downtown and at the Gallery where they may be performing! I spoke briefly with Derek Jones (director of bands and instructor of woodwinds) regarding the possibility of their group playing at some point in the distant (or not so distant) future downtown.
YEAH HURRAY!!! Jazzin' up the Arts!
Rachel

"Gallery of Hair" Juried Art Show details Set!

It's gonna be "hair raising"...well not really. The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art and Carolina Avenue has joined forces once again...but this time to host a unique juried art show...where all artwork must depict something to do with hair. Sound COOL? We thought so...
All ages are invited to enter, all mediums are welcome so long as the final piece of art is wall-mountable and measure somewhere between 8"x10" up to 24"x36".
Turn learn more click here for entry form and details.

LOOK what we FOUND!

I couldn't believe it when Tina Todd, Dickson Gallery's newest member artist, walked into the gallery 2 days ago carrying a black & white photograph of the inside of the upstairs version "Old Buddies Place." (shown on the left) I've been seeking a photo of the inside of this "visit to the past" defining so MANY area Jacksonian's growing up years. I've heard countless stories from so many who've described to me the unique charm of this not-so-forgotten downtown (now bygone)institution. (originally just a few blocks from the Dickson Gallery).So, you MUST come see this one-of-a-kind photo of our historic downtown! Yes, it's for sale...and would make a great addition to any office, home or business decor!
The Dickson Gallery is open Tuesday thru Saturday 11:00a-4:00p.
To learn more about photographer Tina Todd visit:
http://www.dicksongallery.com/artist_tina_todd.htm

OFF WITH THE HAIR!!

For those of you who don't know...last Saturday marked the 5th annual Jackson, TN "St. Baldrick's Day" event!! ...and much OFF with the Hair went around...myself included. Just over $2,500 dollars was raised with 16 folks having their heads shaved!
Special THANKS to everyone who helped make this year's event possible!!
click here to read what the Jackson Sun had so say...complete with photos.
http://www.dicksongallery.com/media_jackson_sun_031807.htm

Happy Short hair!
Rachel

FAITH Homeschool Tutorial featured at the Dickson!!

Aren't these miniature originals the COOLEST??!!! We have over 200 pieces of art from the FAITH Homeschool Tutorial on display at the Dickson Gallery. Each measures 2.5" x 3.5" and is shown in a little magnetic sleeve, perfect for your refrigerator, file cabinet OR you can remove it from the sleeve and frame them!!
The ages of the kids who've created these neat pieces of art range from Kindergarten thru the 9th Grade. Each day as I walk past them here in the gallery I see something new...EVERY TIME!! Such fun work, you'll definitely want to make time to see these imaginitive works!! We've already sold quite a few of them...so HURRY IN!! They're going fast!!
for more details on this show visit: www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm
Happiness,
Rachel

Mardi Gras Parade downtown a huge hit!!

Fun was had by all!!! Today at noon was the big 2007 Mardi Gras parade downtown Jackson. And once again the Downtown Merchants Association participated...more specifically the following,
The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art
Lafayette Thrift Market
Blades Barber Salon
Horton & Associates
Main Street Publishing
Special thanks to all of those businesses who continue to support the efforts of downtown!! The parade route was lined with people...1,000s upon 1,000s of beads were thrown among other trinkets and such and fun was had by all!!
Thank you to Luz, Jamie, Polly, Joan and Kelly for being bead throwers...and to Gary Matthews Ford for donating the use of a vehicle to carry the Downtown Merchants King (Richard Lawrence) and Queen (Kim Collins)...and to Karen Lenard (of Gary Matthews) for driving.
If you attended the parade...we hope you had a ball!!
HAPPY MARDI GRAS from the Dickson Gallery!!!

The buzz continues...

Special thanks to Dickson Gallery photographer Steve Parrott for the photo to the left. He attended the 2006 Emerging Business Award luncheon with me along with Dana Brooks, Jai Johnson, Julia Humphreys and Holly Couch. We're still receiving congrats from all around town for the Dickson Gallery being one of five businesses to receive the Emerging Business Award from the Jackson area Chamber of Commerce. Come by the gallery and see it for yourself...we've got it proudly displayed on the front counter!
Thank you to those of you who've given us warm congrats for being a recipient of this year's award. yessiree...we're very proud!
But without the extraordinary talent of our artists we are nothing.
...and a very special thanks to the Jackson community for embracing your local original art!!
Happiness, Rachel Dickson

by gorge...we done it!

Yesterday (Feb. 5th) at noon the Dickson Gallery of Fine Art was one of 5 small businesses to receive the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce's 2006 Emerging Business award.
I'll be posting more about this very special award soon...but until then click below to see the article in today's (Feb. 6th) newspaper:
http://www.jacksonsun.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070206/BUSINESS/702060314

Wowsa, Wowsa, Wowsa!!

Oh my goodness!!! We're starting to get the little "Refrigerator Art" pieces delivered for Friday nights show...and what amazing little gems of artwork these are!! Featuring Dickson Gallery artists Dana Brooks, Pat Patrick, Jai Johnson, Janice Sumler and Libby Lynch. Wait until you see them. Ranging in price from only $10-$15 these 2.5" x 3.5" Art Card Editions and Originals will make a great addition to anyone's art collection!
So if you haven't made plans to attend Friday nights show, Jan. 26 from 7p-9p (complete with live piano!)...then you'd better make 'em quick. This one's gonna be a goodin'!
See you there,
Rachel Dickson

more info? see www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm

Refrigerator Art...Coming January 26th!

We here at the Dickson Gallery have been trying to figure out a way to introduce the Jackson community to an art form that is all the rage on the internet today...the resurgence of hand-painted miniatures or Art Trading Cards (also called Art Cards Editions and Originals–ACEOs). And what better place to display these unique and collectible art treasures than on one’s refrigerator?
Join us Friday as we host Jackson’s first ever ACEO show. The first in a long series of “Refrigerator Art Shows,” help us spread the word. In the coming months we will be featuring school art depts. and individual artists on our refrigerator door.
This month's refrigerator art show will feature 2.5" x 3.5" paintings in a small protective sleeve that has a magnetic backing. Works by Jai Johnson, Janice Sumler, Libby Lynch, Dana Brooks and Pat Patrick.

Join us at our “Meet the Artists” Reception
Friday, January 26, 7:00pm—9:00pm

*In cooperation with “Fabulous Friday” downtown Jackson!

For more information visit www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm
Or call 423-9708

Quit taking life so seriously...

I've always loved the humor in Calvin and Hobbes. When I need a laugh...I can count on at least a chuckle while reading thru some of these comics. Well today I came across this strip where Calvin is playing in the snow. Hobbes of course observing asks him, "Snow Sharks?" to which Calvin replies..."That Guy's a Goner." There's something to be said for finding humor in everyday life. It too is a form of art. So if you find yourself struggling to find direction...take a look at things from a slightly different angle. After all...the meaning of art rests in the eye of the beholder.
Happiness,
Rachel

Ribbons for daily acts of honor.

Why is it that basically only the boy scouts, girl scouts and the military awards ribbons for acts of service or bravery or courage, etc. I think we should have a system in the world where awards can be bestowed upon people for acts of kindness. I don't think we value kindness enough.
A friend of mine told me an idea (regarding the opposite) that seemed pretty funny at the time...where we all would have these permanent dart guns so when a car driving by or near us that turns in front of us cutting us off or some similar driving blunder can be pegged or marked. Thus over time our cars would bear the signs of our acts of whatever. Quite a funny thought...but a good thing this isn't the way the world is. But got me thinking...why not the other way around. Why isn't there some way to honor happy things people do (not just on the road)? Wouldn't that change our outlook on life? I bet we all would be a bit kinder to one another. Just a thought...
Rachel

Cheers to 2007!

2007 has arrived! And clearly all the seeds planted throughout 2006 are beginning to bloom...regardless if they've all surfaced yet or not. Dickson Gallery's New Year's EVE EVE EVE celebration went very well. Special thanks to all of you who attended. The music was out of this world! (thanks to Kim McDaniel and Shine...so sorry I can't remember the name of the other musician). Champagne toasts all around...and the new year is now here.
I'm not real sure exactly what's on the horizon...but I can sense change in the air. I've spoke to many people who had a challenging 2006 for one reason or another, and ALL of those people have said they can tell 2007 will be a great year for us all. I've decided to simply take it one day at a time.... I think the rest will fall into place.
So here's to 2007! Cheers to all!
Rachel

New Year's Celebration Preparation...

Sitting here taking a breather for a minute. Been prepping for our New Year's Eve, Eve, Eve cel-ART-bration we're hosting tonight at the gallery. Got lots of champagne and wine for if/when that runs out. The food is arriving now too...and from the sound of it, we're going to have a great turn-out. I was concerned the weather might be a deterrent as they were calling for rain this evening...but...alas!! Not tonight! It was sunny and 65 here all day...and it's STILL gorgeous outside....so makes for a great night on the downtown!!! Now just wishing we had a saxaphone player to play outside for us. ahhh well, as a gallery owner, it seems there's always something I could do better or tweek at the last minute.
If you're from out of town and are reading this, all of us here at the Dickson Gallery wish you the happiest of New Year's and may your 2007 be the best EVER!
I've got to jump back in and take care of a few more details before we get going here. Got 2 hours...should be plenty of time.
Happiness,
Rachel

Dickson Gallery Gift Certificates!!

Yes!! We've got 'em! Dickson Gallery Gift certificates in $25 increments make the perfect last minute Christmas gift!! Don't want us to mail it?...we can email notice to that special someone. Click here to learn more...and you can even purchase them online! How simply is that?
Sooo, here's wishing you all a very Merry Christmas! May it be happy, artsy and bright...from all of us here at the Dickson Gallery.
www.dicksongallery.com

Happy Holidays from Dickson Gallery!

Happiest of Holidays from all of us here at the Dickson Gallery!!
www.dicksongallery.com

Artsy ideas for the Holiday Season...

We all know what's just a few short weeks away. But we also know that most consumers are getting trickerier and trickerier (if that's a word) to buy for. So why not original, one-of-a-kind art? Share the magic of handmade treasures. Artist-made gifts glow with a special light. And here at the Dickson Gallery we not only have original paintings, but original jewelry, pottery , metal sculpture and wine racks. Check out www.dicksongallery.com and look for the little , glittery Christmas tree for ideas. In the mean time, remember our new gallery hours are 11a-4p Tues thru Sat.
See you soon!
Rachel Dickson

Jewelry Show Extended until Dec. 1st!

Many of you weren't able to make the fantastic art jewelry opening Friday evening (Nov. 24th) showcasing seven amazing art jewelers...sooooo, we've decided to extend the show until this Friday, December 1st giving you ample time to come on down and pick out that fabulous, one-of-a-kind gift for that fabulous someone!
Make the time to come downtown...you'll be thrilled you did (so will they).
When? Tuesday thru Friday 11a to 4p. It'll be too late Saturday. So don't delay.
Happiness,
Rachel
info: www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm

Fun was had by all!

Well if you weren't at the Dickson Gallery Friday night...you really missed out on a great experience! From the Live violin duet by Audrey & Claire Hazlehurst to the new jewelry by artists Holly Couch, Beth Patterson, Jacque Hillman, Julia Humphreys, Libby Lynch & Patricia Twilla. If some of you were asking for jewelry for Christmas...I'd expect it if I were you. LOTS of Christmas gifts were purchases last night...lucky you!
I have to say, I'm increasingly impressed by the talent & awesome quality work that Dickson Gallery artists continue to create, display and sell through here.
soo, if you haven't ever been to the Dickson...you MUST add it to your stops this week.
And just in case you didn't know it...downtown Jackson is all the buzz! Don't waste another minute...come on down. We've got that artsy something you've been looking for.
oh...and we're going to keep the jewelry show up throughout next week...so it's not too late. We've got amazing art jewelry (earrings, bracelets, necklaces, pendants) starting at $10.
Happiness,
Rachel

Dickson Gallery presents Holiday Art Jewelry Show: November 24th, 7p-9p!

The Holiday season is nearly upon us and we here at the Dickson Gallery are gearing up for our 2nd annual "Venus Soiree" (Friday, November 24th from 7p-9p): a very distinctive fine art jewelry show featuring works designed and created by Jacque Hillman, Jai Johnson, Julia Humphreys, Libby Lynch, Beth Patterson, Holly Couch and Patricia Twilla.
Each piece has been meticulously fashioned to positively effect and empower women as well as inspire everyone to enjoy life, love and laughter.
Please join us Friday, Nov. 24th from 7:00p-9:00p as we celebrate all things life, love and happiness. Jewelry that's you...just in time for the Holidays! Give the gift that keeps on giving, original fine art jewelry!
for more details visit www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm

The Holidays are on their way!

Watch out! The Holidays are speeding their way towards us at an ever increasing speed!! Hard to believe that Thanksgiving is only 2 weeks away. How is that possible? Wasn't July 4th just last week?
So...needless to say, you can imagine all the activities here at the gallery in preparation for our upcoming Jewelry show the day AFTER Thanksgiving (the biggest shopping day of the year...apart from the tax holiday we had here in Madison County just before school started). AND...We're thrilled to have added 2 new artists to our gallery of local talent! Welcome to Adam Welch (photography) & Beth Patterson (carved bone jewelry). Come on down to the Dickson Gallery and check out their work along with all the other great new original art we've added recently! In the mean time...better work on that pre-Thanksgiving liquid diet...I know I for one will be delving into some serious pumpkin pie before it's all said and done!
More details about the upcoming events here at the gallery will be posted very soon.
Happiness,
Rachel
www.dicksongallery.com

Fun was had by all!

It was a blustery, raining evening downtown Jackson...but the "dress up if you wish", pottery opening was much fun on Friday night (Oct 27th)! Shown from left to right: Artist Dana Brooks, Art Fan Kevin Crane, his wife Kelly Crane and their favorite pet Jaxon {their dog blends in quite well disguised in his dalmation costume, don't you think?}, and Dickson Gallery owner Rachel Dickson. I'm always amazed at what fun it is to dress up for Halloween fun. Wish that costume parties were required fun every week...but then we've never get anything done.
oh, but the biggest hit of all were Janet Guptill's (Dickson Gallery potter) cat-poop brownies. Wish I would have given awards for dressing up your food in costume...Janet would have won hands down! There was quite a buzz all evening throughout the gallery regarding her unique hors d'oeuvres.
Stay tuned for more photos...and many more exciting events here at the Dickson Gallery, downtown. ...or to stay "in the know" visit: www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm for all the latest. You just never know what you're gonna experience next at the Dickson!

We're almost ready to BOOOO you...

ok...so if you don't already have plans to come downtown tomorrow night...You NEED to!
There's much going on here it is in a nutshell Friday night October 27th:

Jackson's Professional Business Women
presents Dinner and Halloween Walking Tour Downtown
Dinner at 6:30pm , Guided Tours begin at 7:30
Bakers Rack (Dinner)
205 East Lafayette, Downtown Jackson, 423.2234
7:00-9:00pm

Dickson Gallery presents "Annual Fall Pottery Show & Sale" by potter Amanda Bain
Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, 118 East Lafayette Street, Downtown Jackson
7:00pm- 9:00pm

Lola's Bar & Grill
Costume Contest and featuring music by The Peter Moon Band
9:00pm
Lola's Bar & Grill, 217 West Main, Downtown Jackson, 422.1159

And by the way, did I mention we'll be having pottery for as little as $8.00 dollars?!!
Christmas is right around the corner...and if you're sporting a costume that makes carrying your purchases all over town a bit challenging...no worries, we'll be happy to hold your purchases for you until you can pick them up later.
So come downtown donned in your favorite Halloween wear! It's gonna be a fa-BOO-lous time!

I'm heading to the hills...

ok... It's time...for me to take a break. Sooo, Saturday, October 20th the gallery will be closed. Hope this won't pose an inconvenience to anyone. Don't worry, if you have an art emergency, I've posted a number on the gallery door you can call.
Next week is going to be SUPER busy as I make final preparations for the October 27th and 28th Pottery Show and Sale so I'm going camping this weekend in an effort to absorb some nature....relax a bit...and be on top of it again by next week.
No worries, the gallery will reopen on Tuesday at 11am, because we're also starting new hours as of next week.
Tuesday thru Saturday 11:00am to 4:00pm.
Until then....happiness!!
Rachel

Come early and claim your piece quick!

Attention pottery collectors!! We're getting ready to host our first annual fall pottery show and sale here at the Dickson Gallery. Put it on your calendar...you'll not want to miss this one...for sure! Join us for the "meet the artist" opening Friday, October 27th from 7:00p-9:00p. We'll have nearly 100 pieces of functional, stoneware pottery on display and for sale Fri. Oct. 27 at 7:00p through Sat. October 28th at 4:00pm. BUT...make a note of the fact that these pieces are going to sell very quickly. Prices range from $15-$95 dollars...and remember...pottery makes for FABULOUS GIFTS!
For more information regarding this special Dickson Gallery show and sale visit: www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm

Live audio interview w/Potter Amanda Bain...

Here's a special sneak peak. Last night I interviewed Amanda Bain...this audio clip lasts about 30 minutes. Amanda is one of our potters here at the Dickson Gallery and has a show opening October 27th running thru to Oct. 28th.
Listen here as Amanda describes the differences between wood-fired pottery and electric-fired pottery, the glazing processes, what is thrown pottery, and is all pottery food safe...and much more!
You'll even get to hear just how candid this conversation is as the dog barks in the distance...(Amanda was standing outside at the start of the interview).
Enjoy...! Click here for the streaming audio version of this audio version of "Artisticly Speaking"-w/Amanda Bain.

Art-O-Ween?

oooooooooooooo! Hard to believe that it's October...let alone that Halloween is right around the corner. The next big event here at the Dickson Gallery and downtown will take place October 27th. I'll be listing more details soon, but as a preview of things to come:
October 27th from 7p-9p Opening night for Amanda Bain's Pottery show! ...and yes, we want you to come in costume! In addition, some of you may know the stories regarding our Downtown Ghosts. This year a Walking Tour will be hosted by the Professional Business Women's Association of Jackson. This too takes place on Friday night, October 27, 2006. Dinner is also available at 6:30p by reservation at The Bakers Rack. The ghost tour begins at 7:30 p.m.

Dinner is garden salad, chicken alfredo over noodles, steamed broccoli, roasted potatoes, assorted desserts, tea, fruit tea and coffee. Dinner seating is limited to 80 people.

Dinner and the tour is $35.00 per person; the tour only is $25.00 per person. You may call to reserve them, and follow with a check by mail with the tickets to then be mailed to you. The number to call is 423-2234. Susan Sumner is handling the tickets.

It will be an entertaining evening, so make your plans now. 15 tickets have already been sold to the ghost tour and dinner without publicity, so don't wait too long to get yours!!!!!
So start planning your costume, reserve your tickets for dinner and be sure to visit the Dickson Gallery throughout the evening. You're gonna LOVE Amanda Bain's Pottery...and fun will be had by all!

Featuring...Mary Spellings now thru October 13th.

Presenting, MARY SPELLINGS now thru October 13th at the Dickson Gallery. The opening reception was held Friday, September 29th but the show will go on for the next 2 weeks! So if you missed the opening...you can STILL see these amazing watercolor works.
Mary Spellings has been painting since 1972 and when asked why she’s chosen to paint primarily with watercolor she replied, “…Because it’s more spontaneous. Watercolor is an exciting medium and lends itself to my personality.”
Her workhorse paintings and farm machinery pieces truly depict her growing up experiences on the farm. But Mary also loves to paint historical settings which is why she’s painted “The Downtown (Jackson) Malco & Paramount Theatres”, “The Greyhound Bus Station,” the “Steel Fab Building,” and many others like it. “I like the beauty of the old architecture. It’s like a treasure you don’t see in the new architecture.” Mary said.
We've have over 30 of her original works mostly done in watercolor and there's also a few pastel pieces. MANY of these pieces are brand new, never before shown to the public!
Want to learn more about Mary Spellings?
Click here to listen to an audio interview where Mary talks about the national awards she's won, her first painting...and much more.
To learn more about upcoming events at the Dickson...visit www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm

It was a HIT!!

Well, the 2nd annual "Vino & Van Gogh" event was a hit. We transported over 100 pieces of art to the North side of town and had great attendance, saw some fabulous support of the West TN Cerebral Palsy Association, and sold some original artwork (and some specially hand painted wine glasses) all benefiting a very worthy cause. I was especially thrilled to see WBBJ tv there (see http://www.wbbjtv.com/goodcompany/Vino%20&%20Van%20Gogh.htm for photos they took)...the event was mentioned on the 10 o'clock evening news. The Jackson Sun was also present and took lots of photos and Jackson VIP magazine was there too. All in all, it was a stellar evening in support of a very worthy cause. Very special thanks to the CP center for allowing us to host such an event.
Premier Place Catering left no one wanting for amazing hors d'oeuvres (as always), and great customer care throughout the evening.
Party Mart outdid themselves providing the wine for the tasting. I found some new favorites myself!
Thank you to those of you who attended.
Now the gallery is all prepped and ready for an art opening Friday evening at 7p, featuring Mary Spellings...more details on that tomorrow.
Happiness,
Rachel
www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm

Progress!!!

All right!! The artwork for tomorrow night's "Vino & Van Gogh" wine tasting and art show is now all delivered to Premier Place on the North side of town. (thanks to the gracious help of Jai Johnson, Jenna Cagle and her husband, Julia Humphreys and Pat Patrick!!) Needless to say the walls of the gallery downtown are looking a bit bare...as we have over 75 paintings, a selection of pottery AND jewelry up there.
I'm getting excited about this year's benefit...Looks like we're going to have a bigger crowd than last...AND we've got some AMAZING artwork that will be on display and for sale throughout the evening. ...and yes, a portion of the evening's sales will be donated to the West Tennessee Cerebral Palsy Association.
...also...invitations are in the mail as we speak for next Friday's opening here at the gallery featuring the watercolor works of Mary Spellings. THAT's going to be a great show too!
LOTS going on...here in the art world in Jackson, TN.
learn more by visting... www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm
Gotta run...loads to do...
Rachel

wooooooheeeee!

So sorry the gallery blog has been quiet here lately. SOOOOOoooo much going on!! I'm feveroushly preparing for 2 shows at the same time! aaaaahhhh!
Saturday, Sept 23rd at 7pm we're hosting "Vino & Van Gogh" a wine tasting at art show benefiting the West Tennessee Cerebral Palsy Association, and next Friday night is the opening for Mary Spellings show here at the gallery!
WHOA! The details are many...and the time to get 'em done is few. But thanks to the help offered by many of our artists...I'll think we'll pull it off.
Stay tuned for more about all that...
and check out www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm to see what all the fuss is about.
Happiness,
Rachel

It's HUGE!!!!

ok...so if you missed the grand opening reception at Carolina Avenue Salon last night...you missed a good'n! A PACKED HOUSE was the result and this hip new salon shined in the spot light! From 6:30p-9:00p last night...Carolina Avenue here in Jackson, TN hosted a wine and art reception blending the fun of a salon and the fun of original fine art into one. It truly was dazzling and the compliments abounded regarding the ambience of the place. Candle light, jazz music, wine and fine art coupled with the upbeat personalities of the Carolina Avenue staff, and artists represented by the Dickson Gallery made for a GREAT evening!
I'm excited to see how the merging of these two creative worlds together will positively effect Jackson's growing love and appreciation of original art!
Stop by Carolina Avenue (located behind China King Buffet at the corner of N. Parkway and the 45-bypass) and check out the art...and while you're there...get your hair and nails done!

whew...took a bit of work...but it's AWESOME!!

That new salon I've been talking about...it has such a warm, incredible feeling inside now! (not that it didn't before...just that now with all the artwork on display throughout the salon...it's amazing!)
Carolina Avenue is located behind China King Buffet at the corner of North Parkway and the 45-ByPass. Their actual address is 365 N. Parkway Suite 100, but don't go by what Mapquest says...because they're putting it across the bypass from where it actually is located. ...anyway...this salon faces the By-Pass and can best be described as being across the street from Gary Mathews Auto Dealership. Been hunting a new do? Then call 'em and book an appointment with one of their amazing stylists! 731-660-5616.
The festivities begin on Thursday at 11:00am when Carolina Avenue will be having their official ribbon cutting. Followed by a radio remote from 1:00p until 2pm by 107.7 Star fm
That's gonna be a lot of fun! Then the opening wine and art reception will be held from 6:30p until 9:00p. You really MUST come see all this for yourself. Who'd a thunk it...ANOTHER art gallery location in Jackson, Tennessee!!
For more information about this event visit www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm
See you there!
Rachel

It's begun....!

The hanging of artwork over at "Carolina Avenue Salon" began today. (Special thanks to Janice Sumler who came to the gallery and ran the shop while I was transporting and hanging artwork this morning). so...it's begun. The newest addition to the Dickson Gallery family....Carolina Avenue. They're a new, cool, hip salon in town owned by Carolina Taylor. (She too is cool and hip...which I think is why the salon is such a cool place too). Anyway, as I was hanging various artists work over there this morning...what fun it was to hear and see the stylists and various clients who were present comment and enjoy their new artwork display!
In fact, one of my artists...Nancy Burleson, walked in and has been a long time client of Carolina Avenue. What fun for her to see her own work on diplay in this salon now!
I'm amazed at how the energy of a place changes upon the hanging of original artwork. And of course, I'm excited to attend next Thursday's (September 14th) grand opening wine/fine art reception being held there from 6:30p-9:00p. Hope you'll come! want the details? see www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm

You don't have to check here any more...

Yep, it's true. Thank to one of my artists...Jai Johnson...I learned of a new service called Feedblitz. Scroll down a little bit and on the right hand side of this blog you'll see an email sign-up box. If you sign up...you'll receive an email when we add something to our blog here. TOTALLY COOL!!! Means you won't have to remember to check here any more. YEAH!!
So sign up today. Don't worry, you're email isn't going to be blasted with spam...I promise! All you'll get from signing up here is an email about 4-6 times a month listing updates to the Dickson Gallery blog.
Happiness,
Rachel

Extemporaneous addressing party...

As you can imagine...there's a lot going on around here. Today's task is to address and stamp LOTS of post cards for the upcoming grand opening reception for the new, cool, hip salon "Carolina Avenue" coming up September 14th. (read more about it here). Addressing post cards is always fun...believe it or not. So today...I decided to see what sort of additional help I might find for this daunting task. It usually takes me about 3 hours to address these...but hoping for one hour or less tonight...depending upon how many folks can help. Yes, yes, I know it's Friday...and yes, I know it's the Friday of Labor Day weekend. But I also know that there are many people like myself who have no plans and are looking for something fun to do tonight. Sure beats sitting at home on the couch!

Packed House!

The much awaited photos are here...Dickson Gallery hosted an opening reception for Jacque Hillman, jewelry artist. The event showcased Jacque's jewelry created from computer parts, the power of copper and precious stones. Shown here on the left, left to right: Jacque's great niece, Kara Waddell, artist Jacque Hillman, and Jacque's youngest daughter Lea Waide.
The evening was full of energy and excitement over the reveal of Jacque's newest works. Her work will be on display throughout the remainder of the week (September 1st.) Jacque's jewelry is best viewed in person...so come on down to the Dickson Gallery, 118 E Lafayette St, downtown Jackson.

KOWABUNGA!!!

WHOA...what a HUGE event last night turned out to be. There were so many people in the gallery last night...at times you could only move single file thru the room. What a night! Jacque Hillman's jewelry was a big success...we sold nearly 50 % of the entire collection...roughly 20 of the 45 pieces on display. Not to mention the commissions she also received! ...AND Senator Don McLeary and Representative Jimmy Eldridge were in attendance among MANY other notables!! The buzz around town now about the Dickson Gallery has been cranked up a bit as it was another very exciting evening downtown and especially with the Dickson Gallery of Fine Art. I'll be posting photos of the evening here very soon...
Thanks to ALL of you who attended and I trust you'll truly admire the pieces of original art that many of you added to your personal collection last night.
Here's to many more evenings of fellowship & fine art at the Dickson in the near future.
Happiness,
Rachel Dickson
www.dicksongallery.com

Ping-Pong anyone?

ok...so for those of you who know me...knows that ping-pong has a very special place in my heart. I LOVE the game! ...so much...I could stop everything and play right now. But I don't have a table...in fact, there's only one person in Jackson that I know has a table...so game time is a bit limited as you can imagine. What I don't understand...is WHY doesn't any of the local pool halls have at least ONE ping-pong table?
The more people I talk to about it...the more ping-pong players I meet. I think there's a "hidden community" of die-hard PP players here in Jackson. Will SOMEONE please host ping-pong tournaments?
hmmm, would pp and art go together? Maybe I should get a pp table at the gallery and host my own tournaments. hmmmm?
In the mean time, this week is "prep for the party" week. Yep, it's that time again. Totally re-do the gallery for the art opening Friday night ("Fabulous Friday" downtown) and show on Saturday. Lots of hard work ahead...but always worth the effort. Then starting next week we're prepping to hang a show at a new salon in town "Carolina Avenue" and then on to the wine tasting and fine art show at Premier Place benefitting the West TN Cerebral Palsy Association. for more info about Dickson Gallery upcoming events see www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm . Come October...I'll be ready for a good ping-pong game!

Just how much spam do we have to take??

I think it's becoming epidemic...and the anti-spam laws haven't helped any. I bet I get close to 100 spam emails in a day. As I figure out how to "bounce" more and more of it back...the numbers I think are holding steady. But geez, really. Do we have to endure this crap? I found the cartoon on the left at www.spamusement.com who cleverly has create cartoons such as this one spoofing actual subject lines of spam email. Guess we might as well laugh about it...cause it's not going away. So in the mean time...I'll just keep deleting, blocking, and black listing (woops here's comes another spam as I'm writing). I wonder if these actually sell any product? Worse things have happened. I'm confident everyone trips and stumbles their way thru gobs of email in their inboxes each day. oooh for the days of valid email in the inbox. What year was that? 1997?

"Reconfigured"---It's coming August 25th!!

Dickson Gallery presents,
Art Jewelry byJacque Hillman:
August 25-26, 2006

PREVIEW RECEPTION
Friday August 25th, 2006
7:00p-9:00p
(w/LIVE music by Tom Price)

For more information visit:
www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm

Local Elections...Friday...and roll 'em...

Is it just me...or do some days just feel like a roll of the dice? Also seems as if the entire world is in a state of change and flux...well, duh! Of course it is...and always has been. But, at least in my world...it especially seems unstable. Maybe it's just me....
Local elections and the State primary's were held yesterday. I'm especially thrilled that all that is behind us at least for a while. Signs, signs, signs everywhere...radio spots, tv ads and newspaper articles about who's better at this or that...or worse...but all it really boils down to (at least in my mind) is who we individually decide is best for the job...and then let the chips fall where they may. I'm just glad it's over. Now...shall we move on and improve our corner of the world?
I'm a big believer in "show me"..."be a living example" of what you say you're all about...don't just talk. I'm sick of talk!! Shut up already and show me. ...and I'd say that yesterday was the end of "talk" I hope and the beginning of "do", "be", "lead".
...and I'm also happy it's Friday. Not that I have the weekend off...as the gallery is opened on Saturday...just that the world seems to be generally happier on a Friday.
So, maybe it's not a roll of the dice...maybe it's a state of mind? I do know...that what's done is done...and the only guarantee is this moment...this second we each have right now! So we better get out there and do those things that have been eating at us for years...cause we might not ever get the chance otherwise.
Happy Friday,
Rachel

Art-a-RITA ~ Margarita !!!

The Dickson Gallery "Art-a-RITA ~ Margarita Party" was a HUGE success. Fun was had by all this past Friday, July 28th as we hosted this July "Fabulous Friday" event downtown. We also began our Summer blow-out sale...with original fine art as low as $45! Hurray...'cause these special works are available on a first come first serve basis.
We're also gearing up for another big fine art season here at the Dickson Gallery. We've got shows booked now through January...featuring: Jewelry by Jacque Hillman, Watercolor Original Paintings by Mary Spellings, Pottery by Amanda Bain, our annual Jewelry show the day after Thanksgiving and our New Year's Eve, Eve, Eve party. ...oh and there's MUCH more too.
Be sure to keep a close eye on what's happening at the Dickson Gallery! You don't want to miss the HOTTEST art scene around!!

Goofin' around...

ok...so right after our July Downtown Merchants meeting I walked over to the gallery and opened up. While turning on the lights upstairs I glanced out the window and Lori (Jackson Downtown Development) was snapping shots of the gallery for www.jacksondowntown.com. Naturally I couldn't pass up the opportunity...so I whipped open the window and proceeded to goof off a bit...and of course, Lori snapped this shot on the left.
Things have been a bit quiet in and around downtown Jackson during June and July, not to mention Hhhhhhhot! So we've had to goof off a bit to entertain ourselves. Doesn't mean the artwork is any less than before...as we've gotten in a lot of really great pieces in the past few days and weeks.
So skip mowing the lawn ('cause we both know you'll pass out from the heat) and get on down to the Dickson Gallery. We're loads of fun here...AND we've got amazing artwork for you to add to your collection!
Happiness,
Rachel

If you've been trying to get through...

If you've been trying to get through to the gallery over the past few days and kept getting a busy signal...the problem's been solved. I've been struggling with telephone difficulty at the gallery for the past 2 weeks and finally seem to have the problem rectified. Sometimes ya just gotta love technology.
So...give us a call...731-423-9708 and we'll answer this time. ;-)

I've been away from the gallery for the better part of June. Special thanks to those artists who volunteered to help at the gallery while I was away. Lots of catching up to do now...so I'd better run.
Rachel

Fun Photos!

Hi Everyone,
I thought you might be interested in seeing a couple photos from recent events.
The photo on the left is of the jazz band Southern Comfort who set up in front of the Dickson Gallery last week for our St Jude Pediatric AIDS benefit "Fine Art & Big Hearts".


The photo on lower left is me and Wendy...my best college bud who came down to Jackson for a visit from Indiana during our Janice Sumler Opening. Here we are standing out in front of the Dickson Gallery cracking up...like we always do.

See...you just never know what sort of fine art fun awaits you at the Dickson Gallery in downtown Jackson, TN.

Tonight...an open house for "Fabulous Friday" always held the last Friday of every month. This evening will be very casual social evening complete with live guitar and of course, fine art!
Happiness,
Rachel

It's was incredible!!! Fine Art, Live Jazz and a great cause...

Wow! What a night it was Friday, May 19th!! If you missed it...you must attend next year's "Fine Art & Big Hearts" event. We will be setting the date for next year's event very soon as we compile the results of this year's (the first year) fabulous evening of live jazz, fine art and benefiting St Jude's Pediatric AIDS program.
Special thanks to jazz band leader Bob Shuttleworth and his guys who played all night...OUTSTANDING LIVE JAZZ!! (thank you band members of Southern Comfort). Also a very special thanks to Creative Catering and the spectacular array of food. The adult beverage selection was great also!
Thanks Chris Nelson for assistance in getting this event started. Thank you again to all our event sponsors listed below. I was so very pleased to myself stand on the sidewalk in front of the Dickson Gallery and feel the joy of hearing live jazz on the street in downtown Jackson linked together with Fine Art and a great cause!
Also...a very special thanks to the assistance of Pat Patrick, Holly Couch, Janice Sumler and Dana Brooks for volunteering their time and efforts to making this event such a success.
Onward to even greater things hosted by the Dickson Gallery downtown.
Happiness,
Rachel

Whew...my apologies for such a long delay in posting here. LOTS been going on. Since our last art opening April 29th...we've been preparing for a spectular event to be held tomorrow night from 7p-10p..."Fine Art & Big Hearts" benefiting St Jude's Pediatric AIDS program. Special thanks to the West Tennessee Healthcare Foundation for partnering with us in hosting this event.
Also a very special thanks to our many sponsors!! Namely, Allegra Print & Imaging, Modern Stationer Bella Mèlange Int., Robert's Jewelers, Scott Chiropractic Clinic, Cadillac - Saab of Memphis, Bolivar Salvage & Auto Parts, Druie's Used Cars & Auto Parts, le Diva's, and PJ Signs.
Today I went to Memphis to be on "Checking on the Arts" with Kacky Walton live on WKNO (NPR) radio fm 90.1. What fun! It was such an honor to be asked to speak about the Dickson Gallery of Fine Art, this special event and also speak about the great things going on in downtown Jackson, TN. Hope you can join us tomorrow evening!! It's going to be spectacular. For more information see www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm

Absolutely FABULOUS!!!

Last night was the big art opening for Janice Sumler's "The Spirit of Summer". Can I just say...? WOW! What a great crowd, great live music by Tom Price (thanks Tom!), art sales and another fabulous event downtown at the Dickson Gallery!
Very Special Thanks to Pat Patrick, Harriet Sells and Janice Sumler for helping to make the opening such a success.
If you missed out...no worries...(although you missed a fun time)....the show will continue through May 12th...so come on down and see these newest works by Janice Sumler.
Also...click here to listen to an interview with Janice and myself regarding Janice's experiences as an artist...what she likes to paint, who is her mentor, her experiences in France, and much more!

More Radio!!

Hey there!
We've got a new radio spot on the air announcing the details of our upcoming fine art show with Janice Sumler: "The Spirit of Summer" Click here to listen online...

Also...yesterday we recorded an interview with Janice Sumler (where she talks about her early days as a painter, her painting experiences in Paris, and much more) on "Community Focus" a Jackson, TN 30 minute radio show that will air live tomorrow morning (Sunday, April 23) at 10:30am. We will soon post the show at www.dicksongallery.com so you can listen online any time.

Happy Weekend!
Rachel

It's FRIDAY!!

Hi everyone,
Whew...lots going on here at the Dickson Gallery of Fine Art. Between Jackson Downtown Merchants meetings, Jackson Downtown Development Board meetings, Small Business Advisory Board meetings with the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce, preparation for Janice Sumler's upcoming show, planning/preparation for the upcoming "Fine Art & Big Hearts" St. Jude Pediatric Aids Benefit to be held here in May...we're having fun and staying busy!
Soon we will be posting a page on the website all about the St Jude Fundraiser. We'll link it off of the dicksongallery.com homepage.
A little later today...we'll be in the radio studio over on "Radio Road" with WTJS AM 1390 recording an interview with artist Janice Sumler which will air here in Jackson over the weekend. We'll link to it off of our website sometime the beginning of next week. This'll be lots of fun...Janice is a great person and her art experiences are tremendous. I think she's been in the art business nearly as long as I've been alive...and of course she's an amazing artist!
Stay tuned to the Dickson Gallery...we're sure to have the painting you've been looking for to begin or complete your collection or that room you've been working on in your place of work, home or play.
Happiness,
Rachel

Our Next Greatest SHOW!!

Introducing "The Spirit of Summer" an exquisite fine art show April 28 - May 12, 2006 with opening meet the artist reception Friday evening, April 28 from 7:00p-9:00p (in cooperation with Fabulous Friday Downtown) complete with live music by acoustic guitarist by Tom Price.

AND....the first 25 in attendance the night of the opening (April 28) will receive a free art print signed by the artists!

We welcome you to experience these newest works by Janice Sumler and select the one that’s right for you. Year’s from now, you’ll tell yourself “thank you”! Here's your opportunity to start your collection. Please join us!

Click here to learn more about Janice Sumler and this fine art show...

Happiness,
Rachel

We're featured...!

Special thanks to the Tennessee Arts Commission weekly e-news for dicksongallery.com being chosen as the "website of the week" during the week of April 3rd!
To learn more about the TN Arts Commission visit http://www.arts.state.tn.us/ and be sure to sign up to receive this weekly e-newsletter by clicking here .
Happiness,
Rachel Dickson

We were one of the lucky ones...

Severe Storms seem to have a life renewing effect on us. I find myself greatful to be alive, safe and in simply having a home.....Our thoughts and prayers go out to those who's homes were damaged or destroyed, or had family or friends killed in the recent tornadoes that ripped through Dyer County, and Dyersburg, Tennessee as well as Bradford and Newbern, TN. AND Caruthersville, MO. I'm all too familiar with the heaviness such damage creates...but rest assured...this too shall pass.
For details, images and news coverage see www.jacksonsun.com
Warmest Regards,
Rachel

Catchin' Up....aaaaah

Sign of relief...I'm catching up on things today. It's been quiet downtown on this gorgious Saturday afternoon. A few trickle through art lovers...but for the most part the wine and cheese I put out today at the gallery went untouched. But that's ok...I've had a chance to catch up on things.
Have added Jacque Hillman's jewelry to the gallery website: http://www.dicksongallery.com/artist_jacque_hillman.htm and also updated the events section among other things. Of course, I also spent some time cleaning up the gallery from last night's open house. We have probably 50 folks come through last night. It was just what I was looking for...a laid back, casual evening of fine art and fun music. The Acoustic guitar by Rob Allen was GREAT!! ...and of course, Denny Anderson rocked Lafayette Street downtown with his saxaphone playing.
If you didn't make it...you missed another great event at the Dickson Gallery. Check out http://www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm for upcoming events and be sure to join our email list so you don't forget as we know 'tis the busy season.
Happiness,
Rachel Dickson

Fine art & Fine Wine March 31st.

Don't forget...Fabulous Friday is tomorrow night at the Dickson Gallery.
"Fine art & Fine Wine" from 7p-9p.
Come enjoy our relaxed atmosphere, have a glass of wine and meet some of our artists while meadering through and looking at our newest art selections.
Live saxophone by Denny Anderson and acoustic guitar by a very special guest.
See you then!
Rachel
www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm

NPR visits downtown Jackson!

Hey everyone...
Jackson downtown got some great radio coverage thanks to WKNO (90.1 fm for those of us who listen here in Jackson) the NPR station out of Memphis.
I got to meet Daryl Snodgrass & Kacky Walton and talk on the air a bit about downtown and the Dickson Gallery of Fine Art! It was great fun to participate live on the air via the Painted Lady (which was where they set up to do their live remote).
Their purpose? WKNO's membership drive time...and how COOL that they picked downtown Jackson to visit and broadcast from throughout the afternoon yesterday and today (3/29 & 3/30).
The Painted Lady of downtown was hopping both days! Lots of folks stopped by throughout the afternoon to visit and speak on the air about what NPR radio means to us here in Jackson.
If you ever have been to the gallery on a Saturday, you likely will have heard 90.1 fm playing in the background as I'm a big fan of Car Talk, What do you Know, Says You and of course my all time favorite radio program....Prairie Home Companion.
Of course, classical music and art fit hand in hand....and yes, the Dickson Gallery is now a member of the WKNO radio stations.
Special thanks to Daryl & Kacky and the other staff that made this visit to downtown Jackson a possibility. ...and for those of you who live in Memphis...come see us.
Happiness,
Rachel

We're on TV in Jackson, TN!!

We're on TV!!! If you get JEA cable here in Jackson, Tennessee...then tune in to channel 6 for "Six in the City" and watch me talk about St Baldrick's and the Dickson Gallery...
Here's a list of when this week's show is on...and let me know what you think.

3/30 Thurs. 9:30a
3/30 Thurs. 5:00p
3/30 Thurs.11:00p,
3/31 Fri. 9:30a
3/31 Fri. 5:30p

Happiness,
Rachel Dickson

ok...ok...everyone keeps asking...

All right...here's a photo that will hopefully hold everyone over until I can get a better angled shot. I've posted my "after" photo to the St Baldrick's website. Check it out...I'm amazed at just how fast the old hair is growing...after having been shaved to the scalp...it's coming back in quite nicely now. Special thanks to all of you who donated to the cause!
Watch here for more soon...
Happy and Hairless,
Rachel

brrrrrrrrrrr!

It's done. The hair is gone...and oooooooh, it's cold. Ever wonder just how much heat hair keeps in? Well, let me fill ya in...LOTS! Sitting here with a hat on and can feel the heat swarming around the top of my head.
Last night was lots of fun...we haven't finalized all the numbers just yet...but we had 12 shavees, 8 of which jumped up to the shavee stool johnny on the spot! We got lots of news coverage and thus far have raised just over $4,000 dollars!!
Thanks to everyone who participated and gave generously!
Happiness,
Rachel

Zero Day...6pm

I have mixed feelings at the moment...it's 10:00am Friday March 17th. Today being the day --"off with the hair" happens. I don't have mixed feelings about losing my hair...no, that's not the issue. It's this dad-burn disease cancer that mixes my feelings. I've lost my grandfather and my aunt to cancer...and another more distant relative...not to mention a neighbor and now a very good friend is dealing with this ugly disease.
I'm confident that if you don't already know someone who's struggled with cancer...you will and I'm thrilled to be doing something about it! I'm a doer...and when someone you know is diagnosed with cancer of any kind...it hits you in the gut and sends you into a talespin of "what can I do to help?" Most of us are forced to simply sit by and watch to process...and PRAY that the fight is not lost to this cruel beast we call cancer.
So tonight...is more my way to stand up to this disease...after all...we must start somewhere in working toward a solution. So why not start with the children?
Curesearch is a great place to start...they are the organization where the bulk of funds raised by tonights event (St Baldrick's-Jackson, TN) will go to. Check them out...www.curesearch.org
AND it's NOT too late to donate to the 'cause (having my head shaved in support of childhood cancer research) go online to http://www.stbaldricks.org/ShaveePhoto.asp?SolNumber=15327471 to donate on my soon to be bald head's behalf now.
ONLY 8 more hours and it's "off with the hair me boy" on this a lovely green St Patrick's Day!
If you live here in Jackson, Tennessee or the surrounding area...come on out and participate in this unique St Patrick's Day celebration. Join us at Lola's Bar & Grill downtown Jackson (217 W Main St)at 6:00pm...also enjoy the music by Celtic Band "Kula", the Grove, Peter Moon and of course, 45South. for more information visit www.dicksongallery.com
...and down with cancer!! blah.
Rachel

Rachel's Going bald for Childhood Cancer Research!

The photo on the left is me getting shaved on behalf of childhood cancer research on St. Baldrick's Day 2005. Well, I decided to do it again! How much is one's hair worth anyway? A life?
Soooo, join me and many others as we get brave and go bald, Friday, March 17th (St. Patrick's Day), downtown Jackson at Lola's Bar & Grill at 6:00pm.
My goal is to raise $1,000 of which I've met $300 thus far. SOOooo, I need your help. If 14 of my friends donate $50 then I'll have met my goal. To learn more about this event click here...
and you MUST, MUST, MUST attend this event Friday night. Not only will there be head shavings for a GREAT CAUSE (the St. Baldrick's Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research), but also headliner band 45South, Celtic Band Kula, and much more! ...and of course to make a donation on my bald head's behalf click here.
PLEASE don't let my bare, naked head be a bad hair day.
Rachel

30 seconds or less?

You may have heard ...the Dickson Gallery has summed it up in 30 seconds or less. An audio clip of who we are, what we do, and why...all scrunched into this little snippet of audio.

Click here to listen...

Art Display at First Tennessee in North Jackson

First Tennessee Bank (Jackson, TN) and the Dickson Gallery of Fine Art (downtown Jackson) invite you to view a selection of artwork created by West Tennessee artists on display March 9th thru March 20th at the First Tennessee Bank located at 325 Oil Well Road. The opening reception was held Thursday evening, March 9th from 6:30p-8:00p. Special thanks to First Tennessee bank for generously giving away a gift certificate for a piece of artwork. Congratulations Nancy!
Be sure to stop in and show your appreciation to First Tennessee for being the first bank in the Jackson area to host an art show...and of course, you'll want to view the artwork too.

"ketchup"

WOW! Lots has been going on...and many of you who might not have made it to Roy Elmer's art opening may be wondering how that all went.
Roy's show went quite well. The evening weather was in our favor and it was a gorgious evening! Many folks came out as a pre-Mardi Gras party as the downtown Mardi Gras party officially began at the conclusion of Roy's opening reception Friday evening.
Roy got some wonderful exposure...and many were thrilled to have met him and learned what a down-to-earth guy he is.
Saturday proved also to be a great day. Then Roy packed up what remained and he and Dee headed off for New Orleans on Sunday in preparation for their departure with "Barge Across America"...being that Roy Elmer is their resident artists for their tours.
All in all...was another great art event here in downtown Jackson.
more to come...
Rachel

Sleepless in Seattle...and Feb 24th.

Was at the gallery until 1:30a this morning printing and cutting invitations in fear that the incoming bad weather might kill power...also knowing that invites had to go out today anyway. After a few hours sleep and a trip to the Post Office...all's well. They're on there way...
Not much traffic out today due to the snow/sleet/ice we got overnight...in fact there's all but three cars downtown at the moment. One of which is mine...but gives me a chance to do some much needed catch up today.
As you may know...we're making final preparations for another art opening coming up this next Friday, Feb 24th from 7p-9p. Presenting Roy Elmer...and extraordinary watercolorist.
Click here to learn more about this coming art show.
hope to see you there...
Rachel
P.S. Stay tuned...wait until I tell you about the up coming St Patrick's Day celebration downtown.

LIVE AUDIO!

Last weekend I (Rachel Dickson) had the privilege of being interviewed on "Community Focus" a local radio program that aired on AM 1390, Rock 92.3 FM, and Eagle 104.1 FM. Turned out to be a lot of fun!
Now ANYONE can listen in as I speak with host Ron Haney about Downtown Jackson, coming events, the Dickson Gallery of fine art, how I got started with the art gallery, why I chose downtown, myths about art galleries, various stories about folks who've visited the gallery and much more.
This is now a streaming 30 minute audio interview...Check it out!!
click here to listen now...

What a SHOW!

Wowsas! For our first ever fine art jewelry show at the Dickson Gallery...I have to say...it was a success. 7 jewelers under one roof what quite a feat...but judging by the positive comments from crowd and electric energy created by the artists, the live music and the art itself...WOW!
Special thanks to the MANY artists who made this event come off with such smoothness.
Pat Findley, Jai Johnson, Pat Patrick, Julia Humphreys, Dana Brooks, Jennie Mitchell, Harriet Sells, Holly Couch and also to Marianne Cox who jumped right in and helped things run smooth. Also special thanks to member artists who attended and brought those scrumptious goodies!
(I so hope I didn't leave anyone out! Please forgive me if I did...as there were so many people who made this event a success.)
We also received some press coverage by the Jackson-Today, and the Jackson Sun.
I'd have to say over all...a great night of fine art in downtown Jackson!
Happiness,
Rachel

Only 7 more hours!!!

whhhoooaaaa! We here at the Dickson Gallery are feverishly making final preparations for the Venus Soiree fine art jewelry extravaganza this evening (Fri. January 27th from 7p-9p). The gallery is gorgeous, the jewelry is stunning and it's going to be an incredible display of the areas finest jewelers!! Our fine art jewelers are so excited they can hardly stand it!
If you're in or around the Jackson, TN area you MUST attend tonight!
for more details visit www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm
Got lots to do ...See you tonight!
Rachel

THANKS PAT FINDLEY!

whew...spent the entire afternoon beginning to re-design the layout of the gallery in preparation for over 300 pieces of jewelry arriving for our Jewelry show Friday & Saturday. It's 8:30p Tuesday and there's TONS to do. The gallery looks TOTALLY different with what we've done thuse far...Thanks SO much to Pat Findley for helping me this afternoon. (Couldn't have gotten near as much accomplished without her help). I just hope we have enough surface area ready for all this great jewelry to be displayed in the way it deserves.
So I'm prepping for a lot of "flying by the seat of my pants" over the next 3 days. Seems to happen a lot in the art gallery business. But it's hard to prepare a gallery when you don't even have all the jewelry you're supposed to be displaying yet...I'm getting ahead of myself a bit...but want to be as ready as I can come show time.
I'm expecting a HUGE crowd of folks as jewelry is such a unique form of art that everyone can afford! I always seem to stress out about making sure everyone has a good time AND finds exactly what they're looking for...so I'm gonna call it a day and head home so I can get back at it fresh in the morning.
More soon...
Rachel

Jewelry show preparations!

I'm here at the gallery today for the "countdown" to our next fine art show Friday and Saturday, January 27-28. The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art will be hosting our first ever fine art jewelry show! We're excited to be the first gallery in the Jackson, TN area to feature the work of jewelry artists Jai Johnson, Libby Lynch, Julia Humphreys, Amanda Bain and Holly Couch and their fantastic jewelry...and in such a scale.
YES! SIX fine art jewelry creators with a vast array of distinctive jewelry in Friday-Saturday Show. We're expecting to have over 300 pieces of jewelry to choose from! The opening reception will be Friday, Jan. 27 from 7p-9p. Live music will be performed by flutist Cynthia Wise Clark throughout the evening on Friday. The show will continue through Saturday, January 28th until 4pm. For more information check out our events page at dicksongallery.com/events.htm

First Friday Forum Downtown

I just returned from the First Friday Forum meeting of 2006, where Jackson City Mayor Charles Farmer presents his annual address regarding the past and present of Jackson, TN. He had very solid things to say about downtown Jackson and the City of Jackson as a whole. Overall a great reporting of the progress in 2005.
I also bumped into Mary Bearden (Director of the Jackson Downtown Development Corp.), and she met me with much enthusiasm regarding the coming year...a testament to the progress and plans in the works. Rest assured....GREAT THINGS are going to happen in 2006!
....to the future!
Rachel

If you missed it...

ok, so if you missed the "Jazz it up" celebration here at the Dickson Gallery...you missed a goodin'! WHOA! The jazz played by "Southern Comfort" led by Bob Shuttleworth was OUT OF THIS WORLD! ...and that was inside the gallery. Step outside and you were blown away by the BIG sound of Denny Anderson playing saxaphone out on the side walk. People were dancing up the street to Denny's wonderful sound! The Carriage rides were driving right past the gallery and would stop for a moment to hear him play.
It was such a pleasure for me to drift around and simply experience the evening myself. Everyone who attended had a sort of energized excitement throughout the evening too. Special thanks to the guys of "Southern Comfort", Denny Anderson and the artists (Pat Patrick, Janice Sumler, Harriet Sells, Jai Johnson and Pat Findley) who pitched in to create a night not soon forgotten at the Dickson Gallery of Fine Art!
Happiness,
Rachel

Holiday transitions...

We're in the middle of transitioning...from our Christmas celebration to our New Year's celebration. Oh My...! 2006 is nearly here ...already!!? We've got one week to do those things we wanted to get done in 2005.
Time to put away the Christmas ornaments, pack-up the Christmas Cd's and ponder on the blessings and lessons of another year nearly gone.
So...there's a busy week ahead here at the Dickson Gallery...we're going to be finalizing preparations for our New Year's Eve Eve celebration (see http://www.dicksongallery.com/events.htm) for more details. We'll also be setting goals for 2006 and where we'd like to see ourselves in another 12 short months. Where does the time go? more soon....Rachel

One more Week!

Wow, only one more Week to finish that Christmas shopping! But it's not too late! We've got some great stocking stuffers and that unique item you've been searching for...
We've been selling a lot of Amanda Bain Pottery, Jai Johnson Jewelry, and poker themed photography by Dean Hamilton....to name a few.
We'll also be open on Christmas Eve (Saturday) from 10:00a-4:00p...for those of you who LOVE that last minute fun.
Happiness,
Rachel

NEW Jin Powell pieces added!

Just added some INCREDIBLE new Jin Powell sculptures to the gallery today! I'll be shooting photos and added them to the website soon...but if you're a Jin Powell fan...you need to come visit and see these! They're AWESOME metal sculptures!

Coming up...

Hi Everyone,
We here at the Dickson Gallery are always working toward the future...and the next big thing (Besides Christmas of course) is the upcoming New Year. Sooooo, we're gearing up for our New Year's Eve Eve celebration Friday, December 30th from 7p-9p.
We're working on (shhhh, it's sorta a secret) providing a Jazz ensemble to "Jazz up" our evening...looks like we're also going to have live saxaphone outside the gallery too! ...so, stay tuned for great things to come...and happiest of Holidays as you celebrate the season of peace and love.
Happiness,
Rachel

what a week!

Hi Everyone,
Wow, what a week Dec. 4-10 turned out to be. I took some time to recoup last night and late into this morning and am feeling a bit "re-fueled" now. Starting with the tail end of the LANA Christmas Home Tour last Sunday, the Christmas Parade Monday night, downtown business owner's meeting Wednesday, lots has been going on...that's for sure.
We've had some great sales off our website already for the holiday season! Have shipped items to CA and to IL. In addition, Dean Hamilton's photography show is going well at Picasso's Pizzeria on the North side of Jackson. Turns out that the Christmas season seems to be the perfect time for Dean's Poker and Pool pieces to be on display up there! We're excited for him since this is his first solo show anywhere. Way to go Dino!
To learn more about Picassos Pizzeria click here or on the image above.

Also...Jai Johnson has added over 15 new pendants to our gallery collection. To see 'em all click here.
Much more to come....Happiness,
Rachel

We were nominated...

Hey all,
The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art was recently nominated for the 2005 Pinnacle Awards presented by the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce. While we're not eligible to receive the Pinnacle Award (have to have been in business for 5 years or more), we ARE eligible for the Emerging Business of the Year award. For this, we are honored to have been nominated.
I completed the application process and delivered it to the Chamber yesterday. I am excited to simply have gone through the application process...which was no party I'll say...the award winners are announced in February. I'll let you know what happens.
I'm amazed at what all the Dickson Gallery has accomplished in 12 short months. Thank you to all of you who have supported our efforts!
Happiness,
Rachel