Outreach Program

Art to Grow

The Dixon’s Art to Grow program offers free art and horticulture lessons for local public, private, and parochial schools.

Art to Grow visit with Bruce Elementary Pollinators and Sunflowers

From the Dixon to your Classroom

The Dixon Gallery and Gardens is a unique place that features both fine art and horticulture. Recognizing this dual focus presents an exciting opportunity for cross-disciplinary education. The colorful Art to Grow van and its talented and creative instructors visit schools and other organizations, bringing art and horticulture to your learning space.

The curriculum provides students with stimulating and creative experiences that teach art concepts and skills that meet the curricular needs of students. Each lesson includes a presentation on the topic and also a hands-on activity.

students making artwork in classroom

Who can use Art to Grow?

  • Pre-K through 12th-grade teachers within 30 miles of the museum. Memphis Shelby County schools, Charter Schools, Private Schools, and surrounding Municipality Schools.
  • Teens. Art. Gardens. (T.A.G.) After-school programming is available in a limited capacity for ages 13 – 18. dixon.org/outreach

During the School Year: September 1st through the end of May. Shelby County Schools, Charter schools, Private and parochial schools, and municipalities

  • Each K-12 lesson lasts between 45-55 minutes. Pre-K lessons last 30 minutes.
  • The Dixon requires at least two sessions per school each visit.
  • Teachers can make one reservation for their class per school year.
  • Reservations are made starting August 1st. Memphis Shelby County schools take priority.

During the Summer: June 1st- July 31st Art to Grow is available to libraries, summer camps, daycares, and other educational organizations. Participation cap is 30 students per session.

Cost: Art to Grow is a FREE program. All supplies for your visit will be provided; it is the Dixon’s gift to the community.

Lessons: Lessons are grade-specific and will allow students to use age-appropriate tools and techniques. The lessons are inspired by our current exhibitions and collections. All lessons adhere to the Tennessee Academic Standards. The following lessons are for Pre-K through 8th Grade and are available throughout the school year. They are adapted to suit your grade level. Digital Lessons: VIRTUAL LEARNING

How to Book Art to Grow: Art to Grow reservations for the upcoming school year open August 1st. Please read over the Policies and regulations and fill out an Official Request form contact Jorden Miernik-Walker, Outreach Coordinator, at 901-312-1273 or jwalker@dixon.org.

Request Art to Grow:

Please read through the School Policies and Regulations before submitting:



1. The teacher must remain in the classroom at all times during their Art to Grow visit. Classroom management and discipline is the responsibility of the classroom teacher.


2. Art to Grow sessions have a cap of 30 participants at one time. All museum-based lessons are created to last a class period (45-55 minutes).


3. Please provide tables and chairs for your students to work on as well as a surface for the Art to Grow supplies. Depending on the topic you choose, you may also need to provide space for the student artwork to dry.


4. Due to the high demand for Art to Grow visits it is important that you contact the coordinator with any cancellations at least two weeks prior to your visit. Art to Grow prioritizes Memphis City Schools. Municipality Schools are allowed 2-3 consecutive day visits (Arlington, Bartlett, Germantown, Collierville, Lakeland).


5. The instructor has the right to turn down reservations upon request for any reason.


6. To provide memorable experiences with adequate supplies for each school, only one lesson per grade band per school day visit (example: one lesson for k-2, one for 3-5)


7. Please help the instructor by participating in the lesson, passing out materials, and helping with clean up and classroom management. Refrain from using cell phones, computers, or text messaging.

I have read and agree to the above rules:
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