DAVENPORT, IA.- The Figge Art Museum opened Marvin Cone: Painter, an exhibition celebrating the extraordinary career of Marvin Cone, one of Iowa’s most well-known artists. The exhibition opened on Saturday, January 18 in the second-floor Lewis Gallery and will remain on view through June 18.

Born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Marvin Cone (1891–1965) was a visionary artist and teacher whose career spanned over five decades. Known for his versatility and technical brilliance, Cone’s artistic output ranged from serene impressionistic landscapes and mysterious surreal interiors to bold geometric abstractions. Cone’s art resonates deeply with audiences for its ability to blend technical precision with his distinctive vision of the world around him.

Cone was a close friend and contemporary of Grant Wood, with whom he shared a lifelong artistic friendship. Their trip to Paris in the summer of 1920 proved transformative for Cone, inspiring a stunning series of works depicting Parisian streets, gardens, and the French countryside. These impressionistic cityscapes and landscapes exemplify his ability to capture light and atmosphere with remarkable sensitivity.

Yet Cone was much more than a regional artist. Over the course of his career, he carved a distinctive artistic path, exploring new ideas and styles. From his dreamlike depictions of domestic interiors to his forays into abstract forms, Cone’s work reflects an artist in constant evolution, unafraid to challenge convention.

Marvin Cone: Painter features a carefully curated selection of works drawn from the Figge Art Museum’s permanent collection, as well as key pieces on loan from the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art and a private collection. The exhibition provides visitors with the opportunity to trace Cone’s artistic journey and includes some rarely seen works that highlight shifts in his subject matter and style.

“This exhibition is a celebration of an artist whose exceptional body of work deserves renewed attention,” said Vanessa Sage, Figge Senior Co-Curator. “Marvin Cone’s legacy endures as a testament to the power of creativity, and we are delighted to share his story with our visitors. Each work on display offers insight into Cone’s unique vision and his ability to connect deeply with viewers through art.”