Urban Art Commission

07/29/2026

Two new works of public art. Two opportunities to celebrate our city.

Join us as we dedicate two new public art installations that reflect the creativity, stories, and spirit of our community. Meet the artists, hear the stories behind the work, and help us welcome these new additions to Memphis' public art collection.

📍 Chelsea Wall Community Celebration, 71 Chelsea Ave, Memphis, TN
Saturday, August 8 • 11 AM - 12 PM

📍 L.E. Brown Park Sculpture Dedication Ceremony, 617 S Orleans St, Memphis, TN
Tuesday, August 25 • 6 PM - 7 PM

These events are free and open to the public. Bring your friends, family, and neighbors as we celebrate the power of public art to connect people and places.

07/22/2026

Experience the work of Sarah Wright, an emerging Memphis artist whose practice explores memory, material, and the stories carried by everyday objects.

Wright's installation invites viewers to slow down and look closely, finding meaning in details that might otherwise go unnoticed. Through an intimate scale and thoughtful presentation, the work transforms the Tiny Gallery into a space for reflection, connection, and curiosity.

Visit the Tiny Gallery at 422 N. Cleveland to experience the exhibition from the sidewalk—free and open to the public, day and night.

Learn more about Sarah Wright and her exhibition through the link in our bio.

07/17/2026

Have you noticed one of our “Public Art Coming Soon” signs around Memphis?

When you see one, it means a new public artwork is in the works. This week, we’re excited to welcome Maxwell Emcays Maxwell Emcays from Chicago to Memphis as he begins the installation of a new sculpture for Jesse Turner Park. His design will celebrate the legacy of Jesse H. Turner while creating a welcoming landmark for one of South Memphis’ most active neighborhood parks.

Every public art project begins long before installation. It starts with listening, planning, community input, and an artist’s vision. Our “Public Art Coming Soon” signs mark the beginning of that process.

So if you see one in your neighborhood, take notice. It means something meaningful is being created for your community.

07/15/2026

Some of the most valuable lessons an artist can learns is less about making art and more about what happens after the artwork is finished.

On Saturday, artists joined us at Cossitt Library for Exhibition Etiquette & Being Your Own Preparator, led by Noah Miller. Together, we explored everything from communicating with galleries and preparing artwork for installation to the professional practices that help artists present their work with confidence.

These are the kinds of conversations that can save artists time, money, and frustration while opening doors to future opportunities.

Thank you, Noah, for sharing your expertise and everyone who joined us for another thoughtful afternoon of learning.

❓What’s one thing you wish someone had taught you before your first exhibition? Share your advice in the comments! Noah Thomas Miller You go first!

07/13/2026

07/08/2026

Artists, Art Lovers & Community Partners, You're Invited!

Join us for an evening of games, great conversations, and meaningful connections at our Artist Game Night & Mixer!

Whether you're an artist, art collector, creative entrepreneur, or someone who loves supporting the arts, this is your chance to have fun, meet new people, and grow your network in a relaxed, welcoming environment.

🍹 The first 100 drinks are FREE, so arrive early and bring your friends!

We're especially excited to reconnect with the incredible artists we've had the privilege of working with over the years, along with all of our amazing community partners. We hope you'll join us and help make this a memorable night of creativity, collaboration, and community.

Courtyard by Marriott Memphis Collierville
Thursday, August 13
6 PM - 8 PM

Reserve your free spot today: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/artist-game-night-mixer-tickets-1993031098667?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true
Link is also in bio!

Tag an artist, invite a friend, and we'll see you there!

07/08/2026

We’re proud to serve as a Resource Partner for the STAC Career Connect:
Workforce & Career Pathway Lab!

If you’re looking to strengthen your resume, sharpen your interview skills, expand your network, or explore new career opportunities, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
Friday, July 10, 2026 2:00 PM - 6:00PM Choose901 (Inside Crosstown Concourse)
1350 Concourse Ave., 4th Floor, Suite #463
Memphis, TN 38104

Our team will be on-site providing career resources, connecting with attendees, and supporting mock interviews alongside other community partners. Whether you’re entering the workforce, exploring a new career path, or preparing for your next opportunity, we’re here to help. We look forward to seeing you there!

CareerPathways ResumeSupport
MockInterviews Networking Choose901 MemphisCommunity

07/05/2026

Want to feel more confident preparing for exhibitions?

Join us for Artist Workshop Series: Exhibition Etiquette & Being Your Own Preparator with interdisciplinary artist Noah Thomas Miller.

Learn the practical skills every artist should know—from planning your installation and communicating with galleries to presenting and documenting your work like a professional. Whether you’re preparing for your first exhibition or looking to strengthen your practice, this workshop will help you show up ready.

🗓 Saturday, July 11
🕐 1:00–3:00 PM
📍 Frayser Library – Memphis Public Libraries

Reserve your spot today through the link in our bio!

07/04/2026

Happy Fourth of July!

Today, we celebrate the people and places that make our communities vibrant. Public art has the power to bring neighbors together, spark conversation, and create spaces where everyone belongs.
Wishing you a safe and joyful Independence Day. We look forward to seeing you out exploring the art that makes our city unique.

06/30/2026

At UAC, we are dedicated to fostering professional development and community engagement within the public art sector. Our website offers a wealth of resources, including our Annual Report, Artist Handbook, District Catalogs, and insights into our public art process. These tools are designed to empower aspiring public artists and deepen understanding of community engagement in art.

To view our Annual Report, visit: https://uacmem.org/mission To view our artist handbook, view: https://uacmem.org/calls-to-artists Our District Catalogs are viewable at: https://uacmem.org/digital-district-catalogs To view our public art process, visit: https://uacmem.org/process

Explore these invaluable resources to enhance your journey in the public art world.