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Memphis artist explores ‘A World on Fire’

By , Daily Memphian Published: March 16, 2026 4:00 AM CT

Artist Roger Allan Cleaves’ new works take on Afrofuturism and pop art in a fictional world inspired by Black household knickknacks dubbed “Forget Me Nots Land.” 

The exhibition, titled “A World on Fire,” incorporates the world through Cleaves’ abstract paintings and is on display at the Dixon Gallery & Gardens through April 12. Admission is free daily.

The works explore Black fellowship, politics and art history through a main character named Bookie, an ordinary person who finds a small figurine, or knickknack, that transports him to another universe.

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Subscriber Only Dixon Gallery & Gardens Roger Allan Cleaves art exhibitions

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Olivia Cyrus

Olivia Cyrus

Olivia Cyrus is an intern with The Daily Memphian, originally from Collierville. She currently studies English at Yale University and has reported for The Yale Daily News and The Sacramento Bee.


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