Music on
My Mind
A life in color. A canvas full of soul.
Discover the art of René Dickerson at Black Iris in Richmond’s Arts District.
Meet the artist
Where music
becomes color.
For René Dickerson, music has long been a source of visual imagination. Born in Oakland, California, and named after surrealist René Magritte, the self-taught artist brings cubist forms, surreal imagery and expressive color to paintings rooted in jazz, Motown and popular culture.
His creative friendship with Otis Williams of The Temptations has spanned decades. In 2011, Dickerson unveiled My Girl in Leesburg, Virginia, with Williams and The Temptations in attendance. He returned to the song in 2024 with a new painting celebrating its 60th anniversary.
Now based in the Manassas area, Dickerson continues to explore rhythm and movement through his distinctive “Linear Art” style. Music on My Mind brings his musical world to Black Iris in September 2027.
A look into his world
Rhythm, soul & imagination.
Selected examples from the artist’s portfolio. Exhibition selections will be announced. Artwork © René Dickerson. Motown gallery · Jazz gallery
September 2027 · Richmond, Virginia
Be part of the opening.
Preview & media night
An early look before the First Friday exhibition, for media, collectors and guests interested in René’s work.
Tentatively Wednesday or Thursday, 5–9 p.m.
Exact date and time to be confirmed.
First Friday exhibition
Join us at Black Iris for Music on My Mind during September’s First Friday.
Planned hours: 5–9 p.m.
Final event details to be announced.
Black Iris · 321 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23220
Preview & media night
Register your interest.
Please share your details below to express interest in attending. We’ll follow up with the confirmed date, time and RSVP details.
This is an expression of interest; attendance is not yet confirmed. Your information will be used to coordinate this event.
Music on My Mind