About the Mural

Created by Wilson Whitlock while he was a graduate student at the University of Memphis, Connected in Memphis celebrates the people, places, and cultural traditions that make Memphis such a significant and distinctive city. Although Wilson had completed several art projects and participated in multiple exhibitions, this mural represented an exciting step forward in the scale of his work and an opportunity to contribute to the city’s visual landscape in a meaningful way.

Wilson’s concept is rooted in his belief that Memphis is often overlooked, despite its profound influence on American music and civil rights history. Through this mural, he sought to honor that legacy while reminding viewers of the importance of community, shared history, and coming together in a time of growing division. The artwork celebrates the connections that unite Memphis, highlighting the people, landmarks, local businesses, and cultural experiences that shape the city’s identity.

Inspiration and Meaning

The mural brings together a wide range of Memphis references, from the historic and cultural significance of figures such as Lt. Col. Luke Weathers and Lance “Sweet Willie Wine” to beloved destinations including Shelby Farms and Tom Lee Park. Local favorites such as Memphis barbecue, Gus’s Fried Chicken, Old Dominick Distillery, and the guitar pay tribute to the city’s distinctive food, music, and creative spirit. Flowers native to or associated with Memphis add another layer of local character, while a depiction of a Kwanzaa celebration at Abyssinian Missionary Baptist Church recognizes the importance of faith, cultural traditions, and community gathering.

At the center of the mural is a map inspired by an older map Wilson discovered online. Using the original as a template, he created an updated interpretation with Google Maps to more accurately represent the surrounding lake area while preserving the original style of the street labels. An old arbor from a nearby area provides another personal connection to the landscape and history of the community.

Together, these elements form a visual portrait of a city shaped by its history, traditions, and people. Connected in Memphis is both a celebration of the city’s rich cultural heritage and a reminder that, despite our differences, we remain connected through the places we share, the stories we tell, and the community we build together.