From fostering artistic expression to preserving cultural heritage, these leaders leave an undeniable mark on Memphis’ creative landscape. So, grab your beret and prepare to be inspired by these Memphis muses! Curious about what’s going on at all of these organizations? Be sure to check out the Art for All Art Hub for events and more!

Metalmorphosis at the Metal Museum: Executive Director Carissa Hussong oversees the Metal Museum, a haven for all things metal. Under her leadership, the museum offers captivating exhibitions, educational programs, and artist residencies, nurturing the next generation of metal artists.

Blooming with Inspiration at the Carpenter Art Garden: Executive Director Jazmin Miller oversees the Carpenter Art Garden, a unique urban oasis where art and nature converge. Committed to fostering a creative community, Miller spearheads innovative programs and exhibitions, making art accessible to all.

A Canvas of Possibility at Crosstown Arts: Crosstown Arts, a revitalized Sears Crosstown building transformed into a thriving arts center, is led by Stacy Wright. Wright’s vision has created a vibrant hub for artists, fostering collaboration, experimentation, and artistic expression.

Preserving Legacies at the Brooks Museum: Founded in 1844, the Brooks Museum is Memphis’ oldest and largest art museum. Executive Director Zoe Kahr ensures the museum continues to inspire by stewarding its vast collection and presenting thought-provoking exhibitions that celebrate art history and ignite contemporary conversations.

Amplifying Diverse Voices with Indie Memphis: Indie Memphis, a non-profit dedicated to supporting Memphis’ independent film scene, is led by Executive Director Kimel Fryer. Indie Memphis supports local filmmakers, with a focus on creating an intersectional and racially equitable independent film community that nurtures the growth of filmmakers through five pillars: year-round screenings, an annual film festival, artist development programs, Black creators forums, and youth programming.

Celebrating Black Excellence with the Memphis Black Arts Alliance: Executive Director  Lar’Juanette Williams is at the helm of the Memphis Black Arts Alliance, a cornerstone of Memphis’ cultural landscape. The Alliance, under Williams’ leadership, celebrates Black art, history, and culture through exhibitions, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives.

A Symphony of Storytelling with Tone: Tone, a multi-disciplinary arts organization, ignites artistic expression through innovative storytelling. Executive Director Victoria Jones leads the organization, fostering a platform for artists to explore new formats and engage audiences in meaningful ways.

Going Curtain-up on Creativity with Theatre Memphis: The magic of live performance thrives under the leadership of Executive Producer Debbie Litch. Theatre Memphis offers a diverse range of productions, from classic plays to innovative new works, ensuring there’s something for every theatregoer.

Giving New Life to Historic Clayborn Temple: At the helm of the historic Clayborn Temple, a cornerstone of the civil rights movement, is Executive Director Anasa Troutman. Troutman leads the organization in preserving this cultural landmark and fostering community engagement through educational programs and artistic events.

Turning Up Local Music with Memphis Music Initiative: Leading the way in music education and artist development is President and CEO Amber Hamilton at the Memphis Music Initiative. This organization empowers musicians of all ages and backgrounds, ensuring the legacy of Memphis music continues to grow.

Education On Pointe at New Ballet Ensemble: Offering a diverse array of multicultural dance genres and after-school programming, New Ballet Ensemble is committed to whole child development. The creative youth and arts education organization, founded by CEO and artistic director Katie Smythe, immerses students in high-quality, equitable dance training through scholarships and free programs in 10 public schools across the Mid-South.

Curating Community at Overton Park Shell: Memphis’ iconic outdoor amphitheater, the Overton Park Shell, comes alive under the leadership of Executive Director Natalie Wilson. Wilson curates a diverse season of concerts and events, ensuring the Shell remains a vibrant hub for all things music in Memphis.

Showcasing Stories at Blues City Cultural Center: For more than 40 years, BCCC has implemented quality programs and services through a cohort of professional artists and other creatives, numerous collaborations, and stakeholders who support their mission and understand the passion for the arts. The BCCC produces original works that use the Arts to address social issues and to tell stories of the people. The Blues City Cultural Center is led by Executive Director Anaya C. Williams.

These are just a few of the remarkable women shaping Memphis’ arts and culture scene, which is the soul and heartbeat of modern Memphis. By supporting these organizations, we empower these leaders to continue nurturing creativity, fostering inclusivity, and ensuring Memphis remains a vibrant hub for artistic expression. So, explore these institutions, celebrate these leaders, and let Memphis’ creative spirit inspire you!

For even more inspiration, check out Shelby County Art for All – including a free programming map, calendar of upcoming arts events, and much more.

The post Memphis Muses: A Celebration of Women-Led Arts and Culture appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Get to Know ArtsMemphis!

ArsMemphis serves as a vital support system for local artists and cultural institutions. Their mission revolves around ensuring that Memphis remains a dynamic hub for artistic expression. Their commitment goes beyond financial support–they’re dedicated to fostering an inclusive, creative environment accessible to all.

“At ARTSmemphis, our purpose as a granting organization is to grow the foundation of art for our city with diligent, thoughtful, diverse, and intentional support. While we have distributed over $94 million since 1963 to artists and arts organizations, our support is not simply through good stewardship of donor dollars but also by providing financial guidance, organizational advice, marketing support, and networking opportunities and connections. 

Whether a donor, educator, artist, stagehand, or an audience member, together, we are all contributors to the arts.”

Dive into the Calendar

The ArtsMemphis Event Calendar isn’t just a list of dates and openings. It’s a guide into a variety of ways that our city expresses itself through the arts. From funky gallery exhibits in South Main and mind-blowing public art displays in Overton Park to interactive events, markets, and more.

Live it up with Performing Arts

We know you love a good show (so do we).  The calendar compiles some of the best performances in Memphis. Whether you’re into plays at a local theater, dance showcases, or a symphony under the stars at the Levitt Shell, this calendar has your entertainment needs covered.

Get Connected to Community

ArtsMemphis doesn’t stop at just giving you the details on some of the city’s most anticipated arts events; it’s all about building a community. ArtsMemphis actively promotes collaboration among artists, arts organizations, businesses, and the community. By facilitating partnerships and connections, the organization aims to enhance the overall impact and reach of the arts in Memphis. The organization encourages innovation and creativity within the arts community. This may involve supporting new and experimental projects, as well as providing resources for artists to explore and push the boundaries of their craft.

So, as you click through the ArtsMemphis Event Calendar, you’re not just planning your week; you’re diving headfirst into the heart of Memphis’ soul. It’s not just a calendar; it’s a roadmap to the way creativity defines our amazing city. ArtsMemphis said it best: “Arts are the foundation of our culture. They speak to our past, our present, and our future with authenticity and integrity that ultimately create the voice of our community.”

The post Your Go-To Arts Guide: ArtsMemphis’ Event Calendar! appeared first on We Are Memphis.

The Ugly Art Co.

Don’t let this studio’s name fool you. The Ugly Art Co. offers mixed media from independent creators, from sculptures to drawings and printmaking to photography.

Urevbu Contemporary

Urevbu Contemporary is a gallery focused on “supporting the practice and work of artists from Africa and its Diaspora” and bringing their art to a new audience. You can visit their viewing room to see current exhibitions or shop on their website by artist.

Waterkolours Fine Art

Waterkolours has a ton of amazing artists in a wide range of styles and backgrounds. You can visit their gallery in person or shop online for fine art that can elevate any space.

David Lusk Gallery

The David Lusk Gallery actually has locations in both Memphis and Nashville, and they work with many local artists to display and sell their work. These artists have styles ranging from abstract to photo-realistic for a wide array of choices.

Crosstown Arts

Crosstown Arts is like a revolving door of artists, galleries, and events that are showcased in the Crosstown Concourse. Visit their website to see their current list of events and exhibitions while they’re still in town!

TONE

Last, but most certainly not least, we don’t have to tell you that TONE’s gallery and their series of rotating exhibitions should definitely be on your radar. If you’ve gone to any of their events, you know they’re uplifting some of Memphis’ best up-and-coming and well-established artists, musicians, filmmakers, and so much more! 

The post The 6 Local Art Galleries in Memphis You Need to Check Out appeared first on We Are Memphis.

According to the American Alliance of Museums, over 12,000 Museums nationwide have been closed down due to the Coronavirus pandemic, and just as alarmingly, 90% of the museums that have been steadfast enough to survive only have enough to continue normal operations for 12 months or less. 

As the home to over 25 museums in the city alone, Memphis has some of the most important museums in the country within its city limits. Places that sing the songs of the past, hallowed halls where the art and music of our beautiful city have been celebrated for generations may not survive to share their stories for much longer. The only way to save our history is to donate what we can, and visit as many times as possible, as funding for these institutions comes mainly from donations and ticket sales. The following is a list of all of the  Museums in Memphis, where to visit them, and most importantly, how to Donate to them. This pandemic may have taken away so much, but we will persevere. We must all come together to save our identity, and the history that defines our city, and our nation.  

Listed in Alphabetical Order

Art Museum of the University of Memphis

Visit: 3750 Norriswood Ave, Memphis, TN 38152

Belz Museum of Asian and Judaic Art

Blues Hall of Fame

Donate: https://secure.blues.org/np/clients/blues/donation.jsp?forwardedFromSecureDomain=1&campaign=5

Visit: 421 S Main St, Memphis, TN 38103

Burkle Estate

Donate:http://www.slavehavenmemphis.com/contact

Visit: 826 N. SECOND ST. MEMPHIS, TN 38107

Chucalissa

Donate: https://securelb.imodules.com/s/1728/interior.aspx?sid=1728&gid=2&pgid=928&cid=1872&dids=16&bledit=1https://belzmuseum.org/visitor-info/

Visit: 1987 Indian Village Dr, Memphis, TN 38109

Children’s Museum of Memphis

Donate: https://cmom.com/give/

Visit: 2525 Central Ave, Memphis, TN 38104

The Cotton Museum

Donate: https://memphiscottonmuseum.org/#donate

Visit: 65 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103

Davies Manor

Donate: http://daviesmanorplantation.org/

Visit: 9336 Davies Plantation Rd, Bartlett, TN 38133

Dixon Gallery and Gardens

Donate: https://www.dixon.org/fund-for-dixon

Visit: 4339 Park Ave, Memphis, TN 38117

Fire Museum of Memphis

Donate: http://www.firemuseum.com/about-us/museum-donation-form/

Visit: 118 Adams Ave, Memphis, TN 38103

Graceland

Donate: https://www.graceland.com/ticket-information

Visit: Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38116

Lichterman Nature Center

Donate: https://www.memphismuseums.org/join/donations/

Visit: 5992 Quince Rd, Memphis, TN 38119

Magevney House

Donate: https://www.memphisheritage.org/

Visit: 198 Adams Ave, Memphis, TN 38103

Mallory–Neely House

Donate: https://moshmemphis.com/ 

Visit: 652 Adams Ave, Memphis, TN 38105

Memphis Brooks Museum of Art

Donate: https://www.brooksmuseum.org/join-give

Visit: 1934 Poplar Avenue Memphis, TN 38104

Memphis Music Hall of Fame

Donate: https://memphismusichalloffame.com/museum/

Visit: 126 S 2nd St, Memphis, TN 38103

Memphis Railroad & Trolley Museum

Donate: http://mrtm.org/donations/

Visit: 545 S Main St #121, Memphis, TN 38101

Memphis Rock N’ Soul Museum

Donate: https://www.memphisrocknsoul.org/join-the-band

Visit: 191 Beale St, Memphis, TN 38103

Mud Island, Memphis

Donate: https://memriverparks.carrd.co/

Visit: 125 N Front St, Memphis, TN 38103

National Civil Rights Museum

Donate: https://www.civilrightsmuseum.org/give

Visit: 450 Mulberry St, Memphis, TN 38103

National Ornamental Metal Museum

Donate: https://www.metalmuseum.org/donate

Visit: 374 Metal Museum Dr, Memphis, TN 38106

Pink Palace Museum and Planetarium

Donate: https://moshmemphis.com/donate/ 

Visit: 3050 Central Ave. Memphis, TN 38111

Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Donate: https://soulsvillefoundation.networkforgood.com/projects/31198-stax-museum-of-american-soul-music

Visit: 926 E McLemore Ave, Memphis, TN 38126

Woodruff-Fontaine House

Donate: https://www.woodruff-fontaine.org/support-us

Visit: 680 Adams Ave, Memphis, TN 38105

You might also be interested in: A list of Memphis Museums | Museums in Memphis TN

The post Support Memphis’ Museums! appeared first on We Are Memphis.

There’s been a fresh wave of creatives sweeping over Memphis over the past decade. From the  eclectic and bodacious murals in neighborhoods to poignant and breathtaking photography capturing Memphis moments and movements. 

Here are just a few of Memphis’ budding creatives who you should pay attention to:

Visual Arts 

Lawrence Matthews

Native Memphian and visual creator, Lawrence Matthews, propels his art to the depths of truth, reality and justice. Even his biography states he was raised in a “racially tense environment where his experiences and interests manifested themselves in his creative expression.” He’s a maverick in the Memphis art community, serving as the program director for the CLTV, a renovated space and community of Black artists in Memphis. His most recent show at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens, “To Disappear Away (Places Soon To Be No More),” showcased photographed images of landscapes, landmarks and neighborhoods of predominantly Black communities in Memphis that are suffering the impact of gentrification. He’s truly an underrated gem to the Memphis community, a savant of Black experiences and storytelling, and a purveyor of pushing Black reality in the face of all those who aren’t afraid to inhale it. Look forward to joining his unveiling of the Orange Mound Community Center mural on Saturday, March 14^th, painted by the artist himself through the Urban Art Commission.

Toonky Berry

A graduate of Memphis College of Art ’17, Quantavious “Toonky Berry” Worship is a rising muralist, graphic design and illustrator. You have probably seen his work in Paula Raiford’s Disco, Young Avenue Sound, Lafayette’s Music Room, Rec Room and Crumpy’s Wings with designs for Ghost River and Vice Virtue Coffee. Originally from Mississippi (our sister state – yes, many Memphians claim the whole state of Mississippi more than we claim Tennessee), Toonky meshes animation with virtual reality, contemporary art with a freestyle genre and tone. You haven’t seen this type of art anywhere else. His work has travelled across the globe, taking on jobs from weddings, funerals, business logos and apparel. Check out his first exhibit and showing, “Toonkification: In Progress” at Stock&Belle, 387 S Main Street. This show displays fine art prints of his original illustrations, several paintings on canvas, and clothing such as t-shirts and stickers. The show runs until February 24^th.

Catherine Elizabeth

Point of personal privilege: I’m a photographer and have been for quite some time, but Catherine Elizabeth makes me want to put my DSLR down and hide it in a box in the back of the closet. You may have seen Catherine’s work on Cleveland Avenue, driving north toward Crosstown. Right above the post office, there’s a billboard of a beautiful, Black woman stretched across a vintage sofa with a blue hue blanketing the portrait. It was photographed by Catherine. A University of Memphis graduate, Catherine’s another member of Unapologetic, who’s a quiet storm in the artist community. Her work has predominantly been featured at The CLTV space in Orange Mound, and The Brooks Museum of Memphis’ “Photography in Memphis” at the end of 2019. She brilliantly sharpens the complexity, beauty and vulnerabilities of Black women while also shooting concerts, art shows and events for her fellow artists. Check out her work here and follow her on instagram and find yourself in constant amazement of her eye. 

Music

Duke Deuce

All I know is his most recent video, “Crunk Aint Dead” was shot in the famous Arcade Restaurant. Duke Deuce has already been proclaimed as one of the hottest names in rap, and on track to revive to “Crunk” genre that had us dancing in high school gyms. His latest project, “Memphis Massacre 2” features hit makers including Lil Jon, Lil Yachtey and Memphis’ own Project Pat, Three 6 Mafia’s Juicy J and DJ Paul. The 27-year-old Memphis native was born with rap and hip hop in his DNA, something his father Duke Nitty, local rapper and producer, instilled in him. His vibe is 100 percent Memphis with photoshoots in front of Crystal Palace Skating Rink and The Orpheum Theater, Duke Deuce isn’t shying away from the Memphis sound. He’s amplifying it and getting us back in the Plush Club like it’s 2003. 

KIRBY

I’m a romantic by nature. I love songs that make you want to call your current Tinder match and sing about the love you’ll never have with them. When it comes to soulful depth that stretches as far as Boxtown and the Chucalissa Museum, KIRBY is THAT girl! Memphis-born and Southaven-raised (which is still very much Memphis), KIRBY signed with Roc Nation after writing and producing over 270 songs on YouTube everyday. She’s written songs for stars like Beyonce (Die With You), Kanye West (Only One) and Rihanna (FourFiveSeconds). But it was her own song, “Loved By You,” that made me fall in love with her voice, her depth and her storytelling. Her debut album “Sis” released this January and merges her talents beyond funk and soul.  

Dance

Miyesha McGriff

Miyesha McGriff is who I wanted to be as a kid: an elegant and fierce dancer who made you fall in love while watching her demand and command every ounce of your attention on stage. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, McGriff joined Collage Dance Collective in 2017 and has quickly become one of the vibrant, frequent faces of the company. Collage Dance Collective prides itself as a space for dancers of color, particularly Black dancers, to receive development, training and opportunities to be seen across the globe. McGriff has danced across the country, and has an extensive resume including choreographing the Nickelodeon Black History Month commercial featuring Misty Copeland. McGriff will be featured this weekend in Collage Dance Collective’s 10 year anniversary performance, “Rise” on February 22 at 8p.m. and February 23 at 2:30 p.m., at Germantown Performing Arts Center.

Trinica Goods 

While spaces for dancers and movement arts are yet growing in the Bluff City, people like Trinica Goods, are not afraid of creating their own spaces and offering opportunities for everyday folks to learn a step or two. Goods is a native Memphian and former dancer for the Memphis Grizzlies. While dancing for the Grizzlies, she began hosting dance classes for dancers of all stages and ages called “The Goods Experience.” Now, every Tuesday night at 8pm and for just $15, Goods packs out Dee2TheJay Studio in Bartlett with hundreds of people ready to learn a range of moves from hip hop to ballet to seductive dances one can do for their lover in heels. She’s been featured on popular social media channels including TheShadeRoom for her electrifying moves and envious choreography. 

Ladia Yates

What happens when you merge Debbie Allen with Memphis Jookin? Ladia Yates. Originally from California, Yates moved to Memphis at 16 in 2006 with her family. She quickly discovered jookin’, a popping dance style we Memphians claim we all can do (and we can). She dedicated her life to dance and has since been featured in dance battles across the county including dancing on the TODAY Show with Usher Raymond. She’s cold, and she’s dedicated her time and talent to raising the next generation of jookers at her studio Since she’s started the L.Y.E Academy, 4780 Riverdale Road. The group performs all across the city for special events and competitions, frequently garnering millions of views on their youtube channel. It’s a safe space and environment for youth of all ages.

Film 

Jamey Hatley

One day, with determination in her heart, Jamey Hatley, applied for the inaugural Indie Memphis Black Filmmaker Fellowship for Screenwriting, an opportunity launched in partnership with Barry Jenkins, director of Academy Award winning film, “Moonlight.” She won. 

As a result, Hatley developed her screenplay “The Eureka Hotel.” A native Memphian, Jamey has been noted as “10 Black Women Writers You Should Read,” by Zora Magazine, an online publication. Before filmmaking, Hately immersed herself in literary writing, winning awards including the Rona Jaffe Foundation Writers Award and the National Endowment for the Arts Prose Fiction Fellow. Her film “The Eureka Hotel” debuted at Indie Memphis Festival in 2019 and Sold Out in minutes! 

Rosalyn Ross

Every now and then, a face comes along that just belongs on the big screen. Rosalyn Ross is that face. She has “a spark that couldn’t be extinguished,” said by critics. She’s been featured in films and tv shows  including Brian Banks, Columbus and Nashville, CMT. A native Memphian, Rosalyn’s been featured in commercials including FedEx, Dell Computers and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

When it comes to living history, Memphis is pushing the next wave of creatives out into the world, and they’re not apologizing for it. Let us know who are some of your favorite rising stars amongst us right now.

You may also be interested in: Memphis YouTubers you should be following

The post The Who’s Who of Black Memphis Art Renaissance appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Africa in April

While February is African American heritage month around the country, Africa in April is unique to Memphis as the city looks to shine a light on the important influence African Americans have played in the overall cultural history of Memphis. You will find celebrations of African history, art and culture taking place throughout the city, with many vendors offering special products. There is also a Blues music showcase during the month.

Memphis in May

Throughout the entire month of May, there is an entire series dedicated to showing off the incredible heritage of the city. During the month, some of the most important cultural events take place including the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, Great American River Run, International Week and, of course, the Beale Street Music Festival.

Memphis Italian Festival

Whether you’re Italian or simply craving Italian food, the Memphis Italian Festival takes place every year sometime during late May or early June (this also depends on the Memphis in May celebration, as the Memphis Italian Festival will adjust accordingly, typically taking place the weekend after the Memphis in May celebration has finished). The Memphis Italian Festival occurs at Marquette Park and brings in Italian cooking competitions, musical activities, and local artists. There is also a 5K run, pizza tossing demonstrations, Galtelli Cup Recreational Bocce Tournament, and so much more going on with this festival.

Music

Outside of major festivals and events, music is as much a part of the city as anything else. Some of the biggest names in gospel, blues, rock and roll, country and others stem from Memphis. While you may already know Elvis and B.B. King are important musicians from Memphis, performers such as Johnny Cash, Aretha Franklin, Roy Orbison, Isaac Hayes, and others all either were born in Memphis or spent a part of their career in the city. Beale Street and Stax Records are two important destinations for anyone looking to discover Memphis music.

Get Out and Experience Memphis Culture

These are just a few examples of Memphis culture. From art around the city to culturally significant events, it doesn’t matter if you’ve called Memphis home your entire life or if you are a recent transplant, now is the perfect time to get out and take in the incredible Memphis culture available to you.

Additional Reading:

We Are Memphis

Greater Memphis Chamber

You might also be interested in: Memphis Arts | Memphis Arts Scene

The post The Memphis Guide to Arts & Culture appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Permanent collections

The AMUM has a number of permanent collections. These are works of art that are always on display, allowing you to come in and see these collections whenever you might want. Some of the permanent collections include the Ancient Egyptian Collection (which shows off antiquities dating back to 3800 BCE). There is also the African Collection, featuring over 180 different pieces of Sub-Saharan African Art, plus 1,000 works on paper.

Exhibitions

There are rotating exhibitions that come and go from the AMUM. To discover the latest exhibits coming to the museum, be sure to visit the AMUM website and select “Upcoming at AMUM” under the “Exhibitions” tab.

Currently, Art Shay is scheduled to begin on June 23 and last until October 5, 2019. Art Shaw was an American photographer who took pictures of a number of important American historical events, including the Great Chicago Fire of 1968. (Art Shay died in 2018.)

More about the AMUM

The AMUM first opened back in 1981. At the time, it opened with the original name of “University Gallery.” Over the years, it has brought in a number of new exhibits and pieces of work, as it constantly looks to add new pieces to its collection. Much of its current collection has been donated over the years.

Eventually, in 1994, Memphis State University became known as the University of Memphis. When this took place, the University Gallery took on the new name of the Art Museum of the University of Memphis.

The current collection is mostly devoted to Egyptian and African art, although there are a number of additional pieces, including Épinal prints of Napoleon Bonaparte and works from local Memphis artists, not to mention several polaroids, prints, and silk screens by Andy Warhol.

Visiting the museum

The AMUM is open Mondays through Saturdays with operational hours from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. (except on holidays). It is located at the 142 CFA Building.

You can contact the museum at (901) 768-2224. If you have questions you wish to discuss over email, you can email the art gallery at artmuseum@memphis.edu. If you want to stay up to date on the latest events taking place at the art museum, you can visit the website and sign up to join the mailing list.

You might also be interested in: Celebrities From Memphis You Dind’t Know 

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These Memphis museums and historical landmarks are easy for residents and visitors to identify with and top on the list of things to do in Memphis. But the Lorraine and Graceland are not the only museums that hold historic significance for not only the city, but the world. There are plenty of museums and cultural spaces in the area that everyone should plan to see. Here is a short list of five such must-visit places when in town.

1. Pink Palace Museum and Planetarium (3050 Central Avenue) 

The Pink Palace Museum is the largest science and technology museum of its type in the mid-South. Nearly a quarter of a million visitors each year come to see and put their hands on exhibits ranging from archaeology to zoology and everything in-between. The museum is free to members and costs range from $10 for children up to $30 for adults, depending on the types of exhibits you want to see. All can enjoy free admission on Tuesdays from 1 p.m. until museum doors close at 5 p.m.

2. Brooks Museum (1934 Poplar Avenue) 

Founded in 1916, the Brooks Museum is both the largest and oldest art museum in the State of Tennessee. It features a large collection of unique and diverse art which plays to the diversity of the Memphis community. The collection, which is ever expanding, features the works of artists who are local, national, and international. The museum also schedules various programs that discuss these and other works in its collection and the artist who created them.

3. Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum (191 Beale Street) 

Memphis is the home to music. Its musical heritage dates back to the days in the early part of the last century on Beale Street, where free persons brought the music of their heritage to the city and created the forms we know as soul, rock and roll, and rhythm and blues. These are all uniquely Memphis, and its contribution to the world of music is on display at the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul. Appropriately located on historic Beale Street, it is definitely one of the things to do in Memphis. It is one of the first museums born of the Smithsonian Institution National Museum of American History that is outside of Washington, D.C.

4. Stax Museum of American Soul Music (926 E McLemore Avenue) 

When the historic Stax Records went bankrupt in 1976, many feared for the fate of the old building on McLemore Avenue. Much like Berry Gordy’s home in Detroit, MI, which was home to Motown Records and the famed “Hitsville, U.S.A.” sound, what was to become to the place that was the birthplace to “Soulsville, U.S.A.”? The answer: A museum was created in 2003 to pay homage to the great acts that came out of Memphis, including Isaac Hayes, Sam and Dave, Booker T. and the MGs, and Carla Thomas, just to name a few.

5. The Cotton Museum (65 Union Street) 

Memphis was the center of cotton trade during the period of time before the Civil War known as the antebellum South. It was such an important part of the local economy that an exchange building was built downtown at 65 Union Street to facilitate the trading of this important commodity. The old trading floor is now the site for the Cotton Museum. It was opened in 2006 and its designed purpose is to preserve the cultural history of cotton to Memphis. It boasts 100,000 visitors a year through its doors.

This is an incredibly short list of places that you should plan on seeing when you are in Memphis. Do some research and look up the additional places that provide you with a glimpse of the city’s rich history, culture, contribution to the world of music, and celebration of diversity and life.

You may also be interested in: Fun places to go in Memphis, everything for everyone!

The post A List of Memphis Museums appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Crosstown Arts is having a huge impact on the Memphis artscape. Today, the integrated venues provide spaces for exhibition, music performances, film, and video screenings, and workshops and programs for visiting artists—and the current program for Memphis artists is set to be expanded into a full-scale, residency program. This program will host 16 visiting and Memphis-based residents for extended stays at the Concourse, with the goal of promoting creative exchange among Memphis artists and the larger art world.

The Concourse will also be the site for a new art-making facility that will provide continued public access to a communal woodshop, digital lab, print shop, and recording studio. In addition, the newly built Performing Arts Theater will soon host live performances, film screenings and a community theater program.

“Give A Damn” about Crosstown Arts

Presented by the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and hosted at Crosstown Arts through December, the “Give A Damn” exhibition includes an array of previously unviewed artifacts, including rare photos, documents, short films and music. But you don’t have to be a music fan to have a reason to drop by! Crosstown Arts invites individual artists, curators, scholars, community leaders and arts groups from across the country to participate in exhibitions, projects and programs, so you’re bound to experience something new during your visit.

Beyond simply attending Crosstown Arts exhibits and events, here are some other ways to immerse yourself in the Memphis creative scene:

• See monthly art shows featuring local and visiting artists
• Attend opening-night events, gallery talks and monthly discussion groups
• Check out a concert, art show, performance, screening, lecture or another arts-related event

Volunteering with Crosstown Arts

If you’re looking to get even more involved, why not consider volunteering with Crosstown Arts? As a volunteer, you’ll help the team enrich and extend the creative community in Memphis by assisting at galleries, leading craft activities and games, and performing numerous other valuable functions to make Crosstown Arts a continuing success.

Find out more info about our city, check out the City of Memphis’s website.

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You might also be interested in: Epicenter Memphis: Empowering Entrepreneurship in the Bluff City

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If you’re eager to see more of the works that Memphis creatives have unleashed on our city, you might want to take the long route to your next destination. Here’s a rundown of some of the best locations to view urban public art in Memphis:

Broad Avenue Arts District

The name says it all. Broad Avenue serves as the canvas for some of Memphis’ most popular works of art—chief among which is the Broad Avenue Water Tower, which features a mural inspired by the Mississippi River.

At the base of the water tower, there are two more works to behold. At 200 feet wide, “This is We” by Guillaume Alby is the biggest mural in Memphis, and is situated adjacent to another mural named “Terpsichore.” Further down Broad Avenue, the Wiseacre Container Bridge plays host to an ever-evolving mural that changes every six to eight months.

Photo Credit: Broad Ave Arts District Facebook

South Main Arts District

Local artists are the focus of the South Main Mosaic Artwalk, a collection of eight temporary public art installations along South Main. On the way to the nearby train station, you can view “Modern Hieroglyphics,” a mural composed of eight song lyric snippets mentioning Memphis that celebrates the city’s unique musical heritage.

A self-guided walking tour will show you all the best art installations and architecture along the way. Learn more at gosouthmain.com.

Main Street Pedestrian Mall

When students from the Memphis College of Art set out to transform this mall, they left nothing untouched, from the green utility boxes to the pedestrian bridge near the law school. Highlights include “Quiltsurround,” a sculpture by Greely Myatt made of recycled street signs that is located behind City Hall, and “Roof Like Fluid Flung Over the Plaza” by Vito Acconci, located at the Cannon Center.

Crosstown

Thanks to the revitalization of the old Sears distribution center, the Crosstown community has a renewed interest in urban art. A piece titled “Beacon”—also known as the bicycle windmill—welcomes all to Crosstown, while the “Jackie in the Secret Garden” billboard beams down from high in the sky. Other art murals in Crosstown include “I Love Memphis” by Jay Crum and Kong Wee Pang, as well as a rotating set of murals known as The Moonpie Project.

Overton Park

Overton Park has long been considered the crown jewel of Memphis, and the UrbanArt Commission has further cemented this reputation. The public is welcomed to the park by a gorgeous arched gateway constructed by local artist Tylur French and composed of 300 scrap bicycles. In addition, the East Park Playground, Rainbow Lake Playground and Levitt Shell feature similar gateway installations, while the park’s golf course is adorned with a movable sculpture titled “Rhapsody.”

On your way to Overton Park, be sure to cruise through Overton Square and enjoy the assorted murals and sculptures.

Overton Square

Overton Square has been revitalized in recent years, emerging as a hot entertainment area that is home to one of the most stunning lovebird murals in the world. The mural is the most recent addition to the beautiful pieces of art that can be found in the area, and it’s unlikely that it will be the last.

Cooper-Young

The neighborhood around Cooper Street and Young Avenue hosts some of the most iconic works in all of Memphis. Perhaps most notably, the original “I Love Memphis” mural is situated adjacent to the Cooper-Young Trestle, a 150-foot steel sculpture that depicts the neighborhood. Those taking in the art by foot can also behold the numerous underpasses that have been transformed from eyesore to eye candy.

The fact that the Memphis arts scene is clearly alive and well is just one more factor that makes Memphis a beautiful place to live.

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Here’s a list of just some of them:

The Memphis Sign

In 2019, the Memphis sign at Mud Island Park was made to celebrate Memphis’ Bicentennial. This celebration was dubbed “A New Century of Soul,” and with that, crowds came flocking to take a selfie and the sign became Memphis’ newest Instagram Sensation.

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Beale Street District

The Beale Street Historic District offers everything from the gospel hub that is the Beale Street Baptist Church to the brightly lit bars and clubs that come alive when the sun goes down. The only problem with this part of town might be that there’s simply too much to photograph!

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The Memphis Pyramid

Did you know Memphis is home to one of the tallest pyramids in the world? It reminds us of the connection to the Egyptian city after which Memphis, Tennessee, was named. Our pyramid houses a bar, an aquarium, a restaurant, a massive Bass Pro Shops location and more!

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The Orpheum Theatre

This center of arts and entertainment is the place to go for everything from concerts to comedy. Although the theater’s architecture isn’t the main attraction, it’s stunning in its own right, and includes lavish chandeliers, moldings and a huge pipe organ.

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The Memphis Zoo

The Memphis Zoo’s themed seasonal setups ensure you’ll have something new to look at every time you visit. Of course, there’s also a plethora of animals and activities to enjoy and photograph: ice-skating, camel-riding, feeding the giraffes, visiting the playground, riding the carousel and more.

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Graceland

Once the home of Elvis Presley, the Graceland mansion and the surrounding grounds are now a shrine to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. There’s an abundance of color to capture here, from the greenery of the Jungle Room to the pastel pink of Elvis’ 1955 Cadillac.

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Stax Museum

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music traces the origins of soul and showcases legendary musicians such as Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes along the way. Don’t miss the carefully reassembled, circa-1906 Mississippi Delta church inside the building.

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Big River Crossing

Photograph the dramatically varied landscape of Memphis and beyond while walking the longest public pedestrian/bike bridge across the Mississippi River. Whether you prefer urban, rural, or natural areas, Big River Crossing has something for you.

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Memphis Botanic Garden

You’re bound to snap at least one perfect photo of the flowers, plants and trees of all kinds spread out across the Memphis Botanic Garden’s 96 acres, which include 28 specialty gardens.

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Festivals

Memphians love to party! Capture artists and art-lovers enjoying October’s RiverArts Fest; get some epic shots of performers at the Beale Street Music Festival, Gonerfest, and the Memphis Music & Heritage Festival; honor rich cultures from close to home and across the globe at the Rajun Cajun Crawfish Festival and the Memphis Greek Festival; and more!

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Shelby Farms Park

As one of the largest urban parks in the country, Shelby Farms Park offers an oasis of greenery for city slickers and nature photographers alike. Come by in December to see the park transformed into a winter wonderland for the Starry Nights holiday festival.

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AutoZone Park

Take a deep dive into one of America’s greatest traditions at AutoZone Park, otherwise known as the baseball stadium of the Memphis Redbirds. If you’re not into sports—or sports photography—sit back and enjoy the aesthetic. The crisp red-and-white uniforms, the sparkling green of the grass… we can practically see the Instagram likes in your future already!

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“I Am A Man” Mural

The “I Am A Man” mural in South Main brings out a unifying message. This piece is an homage to the Civil Rights Movement, based on the “I am a Man” march that took place on South Main.

Court Square Park

Combining historical reconstruction and modern architecture, all on one block, Court Square Park is the official center of Downtown Memphis. On a sunny day in Downtown, you’ll find Court Square Park in its full glory. Swing by for Food Truck Rodeo on Thursdays or just take a stroll to get all the greenery you need in an urban landscape. 

The Peabody Hotel

Known for its charm, elegance, and gracious Southern hospitality, The Peabody Memphis has been made world-famous by its five resident Mallard ducks, who march daily through the Grand Lobby at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Also, every Thursday during the summer the Peabody Hotel throws Rooftop Parties featuring tasty cocktails, snacks, and live music. The Hotel’s iconic red rooftop sign is itself a mainstay, whether you photograph it from elsewhere in the city or while on the roof of the hotel itself. 

Elvis Statue

A visit to Memphis is not complete without a pic of yourself with The King. If you’re strolling down the south side of Beale St, take the opportunity to capture a photo of the iconic Elvis statue. Originally unveiled in 1980, the world’s first bronze Elvis statue was taken down in 1994 and moved indoors to the downtown Memphis Tennessee Welcome Center. That left Elvis Presley Plaza with a big, empty spot. It was finally filled in 1997 with the arrival of a new, completely different bronze Elvis statue by sculptor Andrea Lugar. This Elvis, unlike the original, shows him as he would have looked on Beale Street circa 1955, wearing a stage outfit he might have bought at Lansky Bros where he was a loyal customer. Mr. Bernard Lansky helped Elvis create his well-known and sought-after style, a feat which gained Bernard the title of Clothier to the King. 

The Blues Hall of Fame

Visitors will enjoy 10 individualized galleries with interactive touchscreen displays along with three master databases where they can hear the music, watch videos, and read the stories of each inductee. Snap a photo under the blue lights with the statue of blues legend Little Milton. The statue was inspired by the cover of “Think of Me,” Little Milton’s final studio album, which features him photographed on a bench embracing his guitar.

Children’s Museum of Memphis

Photo worthy highlights include a fun cityscape with kid-sized businesses—including an auto mechanic shop and dentist office—an interactive model of Times Square, and a giant Light-Bright wall. Kids can also sit in a flight simulator and a real airplane cockpit, explore the Mississippi River, climb through the arteries of a giant heart, and ride a bicycle on Mars. There’s no better place to show off how adorable your kids are!

Mud Island

Also known as Festival Island, Mud Island, houses the Riverwalk, a three-quarter-mile-long model showing the course of the Mississippi from Cairo, Illinois, to the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can hop aboard a pedal-boat and relax on the water while enjoying views of the Memphis skyline. 

Summer Avenue

With most original buildings still standing, Summer Avenue is one of those picturesque all-American streets. Travel back into one of the greatest eras of Memphis’ history simply by driving down it. For a quick glimpse into Memphis’ past, look no further than Summer Avenue’s 6 miles of antique stores and thrift shops. But, don’t miss the drive-in theater and mom-and-pop restaurants along the way!

Bonus

Hit the streets

OK, “the streets” isn’t exactly a specific location, but we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to encourage you to snap some shots of the daily hustle and bustle of Memphis life. Street photography can be compelling no matter what you’re shooting, and when you add the Memphis vibe, you’re bound to capture some gold.

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Openings are basically big parties. There’s sure to be a crowd, odds are you can meet the artist(s), and at the very least you’ll get a free drink. If you miss the opening, no big deal – shows typically run anywhere from two days to a month. Visit during normal gallery hours when you can view the work in more serene conditions and possibly discuss the work with the curator.

The best nights are when there are so many openings that you have to make a plan of attack in order to see them all.

Want to know the best way to get in the loop on local art openings? Elizabeth Alley, whose “Two Stories of Iceland” was on display at Crosstown Arts, says that The Memphis Flyer has always been good about listing art openings, but these days she primarily uses Facebook. “I make sure to follow the ‘main’ galleries in town – L Ross, David Lusk, Jay Etkin, Crosstown Arts, plus schools – U of M has two galleries, and CBU, and Rhodes all have galleries,” she says.

Alex Paulus, another local artist, says, “The best places to go are David Lusk and Crosstown Arts. I think those are the some of best galleries in Memphis right now. They’re showing really interesting work.”

Alley believes that it’s important for both artists and non-artists to go to shows. “If you are an artist, it is important to go to see what other artists are up to. There is a lot to learn from seeing a gallery show – are there local trends? How is this artist choosing to display their sculpture/drawing/installation? It is also a great way to meet other artists – there are so many artists in town that I know because I met them at an art opening,” she says.

If you are not an artist, Alleys says it is important to go to show your support for artists and local art. “And you can learn things and meet artists, too! Ideally you will buy something, plus there is usually free wine,” she says.

Here’s Alley’s primer on what to do once you are there:

Enter the gallery, do a quick survey of the room, then choose a place to start. Look at the art, but don’t fret about studying it (art openings are for socializing as much as they are for learning something, and often people are standing in the way of the art anyway). Make your way to the wine, relax, look at the price list. Drink more wine, buy something.

Buying local art is a great investment. Often, galleries will do payment plans so don’t be shy if there’s something that you really love but cannot afford all at once. Most galleries do get a percentage of the selling price. However, artists who show at Crosstown Arts keep 100% of their proceeds.

Alley also encourages visitors to say something to the artist if they see them. “We want to hear from you and part of our job requirement is to be able to talk about our art,” she says.

Many galleries like Lusk and L Ross will schedule artist talks with the artists currently on display, so you can hear even more about their work. These talks are generally the second Saturday after the opening, but that can vary.

Familiarize yourself with the following galleries, follow them on Facebook, and watch your Fridays fill up!

Galleries

Art Museum of the University of Memphis (AMUM) 

Beverly and Sam Ross Gallery (Christian Brothers University)

Clough Hanson (Rhodes College)

Crosstown Arts

David Lusk

Dixon Gallery & Gardens

Jay Etkin

L Ross

The Martha and Robert Fogelman Galleries of Contemporary Art

TONE

Tops Gallery 

Sheetcake Gallery

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