project overview
DOWNTOWN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL | Downtown
Artist: TBD
Budget: $20,000 (includes three finalist honoraria of $500 each)
Upcoming benchmark/update: Artist Selection
BACKGROUND
About Downtown Elementary
Downtown Memphis is the historic heart of the city, where the Mississippi Riverfront, iconic Beale Street, and a thriving cultural and civic core meet. The neighborhood is home to public parks, theaters, museums, restaurants, and civic institutions, including City Hall and the Shelby County Courthouse. It is a vibrant and growing community where residents, workers, and visitors connect daily. With its mix of historic architecture, modern development, and cultural landmarks, Downtown represents the spirit and identity of Memphis as a city that celebrates creativity, resilience, and innovation.
About Downtown
Downtown Elementary, home of the Skyscrapers, serves children in grades Pre-K through 5 and is part of Shelby County Schools. Located in the center of the city, the school emphasizes academic excellence, strong community partnerships, and experiential learning. Its student body reflects the broader downtown neighborhood, creating a dynamic environment that values inclusivity and collaboration. The school’s mission is to foster curiosity, leadership, and achievement, preparing students to rise to new heights—just like the skyscrapers that inspire its name.
About UAC:
The UrbanArt Commission (UAC) works to create opportunities for artists and neighborhoods to connect and shape spaces through public art. Since 2002, UAC has managed the City of Memphis’s Percent-For-Art Program, which allocates funds annually to develop public art in connection to capital improvement projects. UAC also facilitates public art projects throughout the city working with various partners and clients to support artists and new experiences with art.
Intersection of 4th and Court St, near Downtown Elementary School
Downtown Elementary School
SCOPE OF WORK
UAC and the City of Memphis, in partnership with Downtown Elementary School, are seeking an artist to create three distinct crosswalks that highlights Downtown’s unique culture and residents.
The selection committee has expressed interest in crosswalks that:
Include themes of community, youth, education
Include positive messaging
Pays homage to the rich history of the area
Complies with the City of Memphis crosswalk guidelines (This information will be shared with selected finalists.)
SELECTION COMMITTEE
Brandye Williams - Principal, Downtown Elementary School
Narvia Smith-Taylor- Assistant Principal, Downtown Elementary School
Shalonda Black - Assistant Principal, Downtown Elementary School
Taurus Brazil- Professional Learning Coach, Downtown Elementary School
Yvonne Morton- Optional School Coordinator, Downtown Elementary School
William Ezzell-City Traffic Engineering Division
