Artist Talk: "Not Only Seen, But Felt"

Subtitle: "Showcasing the Work of Seven Black Women Photographers as Visual Griots, Capturing Identity, Cultural Heritage, Spiritual Practices, and Legacy."

A group of talented artists partnered with UrbanArt Commission to install an exhibition at our UAC facilities called “Not Only Seen, But Felt.” To read more about the installation visit this page!

This event is hosted by the artists at UrbanArt Commission.

“Join us for an engaging artist talk featuring the photographers of "Not Only Seen, But Felt," a powerful exhibition showcasing the work of seven Black women photographers from Memphis. Acting as visual griots, these talented artists use their lenses to explore themes of identity, cultural heritage, spiritual practices, and legacy.

The discussion will provide an intimate look into the stories, inspirations, and creative processes behind their work, which spans styles from documentary and portraiture to experimental and abstract photography.

Enjoy a curated evening with hors d’oeuvres and wine sponsored by Café Noir and the Literature is Liberating Foundation, alongside food provided by Kaya’s Kitchen—a mission-driven initiative by home chef Kaya Lewis that combines her love of cooking with a commitment to fighting food insecurity in the community.“

Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025
Time: 5:00-6:30pm
Location: 422 N. Cleveland St.

Please RSVP as space is limited.

The Chelsea Wall is a nearly mile-long canvas ready for a team of muralists to make it into a masterpiece.

The Chelsea Wall is located in the 38108 zip code area.

UAC invites interested selection committee volunteers to learn more about the upcoming “Chelsea Wall” mural project. Help shape our Call to Artists and make a lasting impact on this nearly mile-long community canvas! The selection committee determines the scope of the project, reviews artist submissions, provides feedback to the selected artist and finalists, selects artists for projects, and approves all design, fabrication and installation benchmarks.

For any questions please contact our Program Manager, Travis Washington at travis@uacmem.org !

Sign up here!

UrbanArt Commission invites you to Brunch and Brushes! Join us for a delightful morning of creativity and delicious food. Join us for a special Black History Month Edition of “Brunch and Brushes”—an inspiring and creative brunch experience celebrating Black inventors who have shaped history.

Grab a paintbrush in one hand and a fork in the other as you enjoy a relaxing brunch and let your creativity flow onto canvas. This in-person event is perfect for art enthusiasts and foodies alike. If you're looking for a family friendly event, come have fun and paint to your heart's content. Reserve your spot now! Brunch and Brushes: Black History Month Edition

• Cost: $25 (Adults and children over 12), FREE for children under 12

What’s Included:

• Brunch Menu: Breakfast tacos, fruit, granola parfaits, and mock mimosas (non-alcoholic beverages).

• Creative Fun: All art supplies provided to help you create your masterpiece!

• History & Inspiration: Learn about the lives and achievements of groundbreaking Black inventors while creating art that reflects their stories.

This event is perfect for families, art enthusiasts, and history lovers alike. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today!

During this event, you’ll not only create art but also learn about the remarkable contributions of:

• Benjamin Banneker: The brilliant mind behind America’s first fully functioning clock, invented in 1752.

• Rosa Parks: The courageous leader whose actions sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1955.

• Garrett Morgan: The innovative inventor of the first traffic light in 1923.

Join us for the opening reception of "Not Only Seen, But Felt", a powerful exhibition celebrating seven Black women photographers based in Memphis. The opening reception is completely FREE, reserve your spot with this link!

RSVP for this event with this link!

On February 21, 2025, we will unveil Monuments to Motherhood at Medical District Park (formerly Health Sciences Park)—a powerful new public art installation by New York based artist and activist, Molly Gochman. This collection of large-scale bronze sculptures serves as a tribute to caregivers—those who dedicate their lives to serving, protecting, and nurturing others.

This project aligns with UrbanArt Commission’s mission to transform public spaces by creating opportunities for artists and communities to come together. But this installation is more than a physical transformation—it challenges us to reimagine how we engage with this space and the stories it tells. Thanks to the generosity of Molly Gochman, this gift to Memphis will not only reshape the park visually, but also in spirit. The unveiling will take place on National Caregivers Day and will be a true celebration of community.

Learn more about the artwork & artist by listening to the podcast: Visit this link!

Join us for an exciting community event!

Come meet artist Daniel Moore, who will be sharing insights about his public art sculpture installation at the Orange Mound Library and Genealogy Center.

Also, don’t miss out on a fun paint by numbers activity led by talented local artist and UAC selection committee member Darlene Newman. This activity is sponsored by RiverArtsFest!

Plus, the Orange Mound Library is hosting a Black history month themed scavenger hunt!

This event is FREE and open to all ages — bring your friends, family, and neighbors for a day of creativity and fun!

Date: February 8, 2025 from 3:30pm to 5:30pm

Location: Orange Mound Library and Genealogy Center

SIgn up for FREE with this link!