A Remarkable Transition: From the Gridiron to the Canvas
Brian Poli-Dixon's journey from professional athlete to celebrated artist is both inspiring and unique. Much like renowned artist and former NFL player Ernie Barnes, Brian has been able to translate his discipline as a former NFL player into his passion for creating art. Growing up with an African-American father and an Italian-American mother in the United States during the 1980s and 1990s, Brian knows first-hand the nuances of how words, color, and emotion impact one’s perception of self, community, and the world. His family’s heritage is rooted in oral tradition, resilience, and creativity, and he desires for his art to tell stories and to spark conversations much like the songs of Griots in West Africa.
At Art Basel 2021 in Miami, Brian Poli-Dixon received the Best New Exhibitor Award (Spectrum Miami). Some critics have described his art in the lineage of Jean-Michel Basquiat, Pablo Picasso, Carmen Herrera, and Wilfredo Lam, but Brian simply desires to share his interpretations of color, words, and emotions with the world. Brian uses his love for photography to assemble stories in his mind before using his paint brush and hands to convey those stories on canvas.
Featured Pieces at Lux Neon Art Gallery
Two of Brian Poli-Dixon’s remarkable works are currently available to view at Lux Neon Art Gallery, each encapsulating his signature approach to storytelling and emotional depth:
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"Love Me As I Am" (2023): This powerful piece, rendered in acrylic and spray paint on a 38” x 50” wood panel, celebrates self-acceptance and the beauty of imperfection. Every brushstroke tells a story, urging viewers to embrace their flaws and find beauty in authenticity.
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"Eye Feel You" (2022): Composed of flyers from Brian’s solo show in Toronto, along with molding paste, acrylic, gold leaf, and a resin finish on a 48” x 36” canvas, this profound work is a visual reminder of the importance of emotional awareness. "Eye Feel You" invites viewers to look deeper, encouraging them to see beyond the surface and acknowledge the complexities of life and human emotion.
Brian's creative process is deeply rooted in his passion for photography. He uses his love for photography to assemble stories in his mind before using his paint brush and hands to convey those stories on canvas. This method allows him to create pieces that are not only visually striking but also rich in narrative depth.
Global Exhibitions and Studio Locations
His works have been shown at countless exhibitions around the globe, and Brian currently calls South Florida home. His studios are located in both South Florida and Toronto. The Brian Poli-Dixon Art Gallery is located in South Florida as well.
Experience Brian Poli-Dixon's Art at Lux Neon Art Gallery
Brian Poli-Dixon's transition from the NFL to the art world exemplifies the transformative power of passion and creativity. His artworks, deeply influenced by his diverse heritage and personal experiences, continue to captivate audiences worldwide. We are proud to feature his pieces at Lux Neon Art Gallery and encourage you to immerse yourself in the vibrant narratives he brings to life on canvas.
Explore Brian Poli-Dixon's artworks, including "Love Me As I Am" and "Eye Feel You," at Lux Neon Art Gallery. For more information, please contact us or visit our website. To see more of Brian's work and stay updated on his latest creations, follow him on Instagram at @Brianpolidixonart.
