What happens when you perfectly intertwine community, music, art and history? You get Memphis. Memphis is a city that echoes with the fabric of creativity through the expression of art in all forms.
What happens when you perfectly intertwine community, music, art and history? You get Memphis. Memphis is a city that echoes with the fabric of creativity through the expression of art in all forms.
Walk down any street and you’re bound to see a large mural on a wall, bridge or even sidewalk. Tune into the radio and you’ll hear of the next show that is broadcasting. Sit at a bar and you’ll notice the historical aspect of its existence.
The celebration of art is evidence of the makeup of Memphis residents — determined, focused and original. As you explore the vibrancy of Black-owned art galleries in Memphis, it's essential to acknowledge the historical context that has shaped their existence. For generations, Black artists and entrepreneurs have faced systemic barriers and discrimination that sought to limit their creative expression and economic opportunities.
Black-owned art spaces in Memphis stand as testaments to this spirit, serving not only as venues for artistic expression but also as vital community hubs that celebrate culture, heritage and innovation. These spaces reflect a legacy of perseverance, where artists and entrepreneurs have created their own platforms, reclaiming narratives and redefining the cultural landscape.
Memphis is built on Black culture. Come see fascinating works through a variety of art forms all across town.
Black-owned art galleries, dance studios, performance venues and theaters and even farms and gardens are your ticket to seeing the works of talented local artists.
From historic Civil Rights photos to original plays to dance classes, Black-owned art spaces and Black artists in Memphis cultivate and build upon the city's rich culture.
Plan your visit around an upcoming art show, community workshop, class or performance.
Art museums, galleries, Broadway shows, arts and entertainment districts, and upcoming events — discover Memphis' lively arts scene.
Art Galleries
Urevbu Contemporary Art Gallery
Downtown Memphis
Sheila Urevbu is the owner of the Urevbu Art Gallery. Located in downtown Memphis on Main Street, this art gallery gives us a lens into the up-and-coming Black artists that feature their work at Urevbu Contemporary Art. The mission of her gallery is to support Black artists who are looking to gain greater exposure for their work while encouraging thought-provoking conversations.
Open 12–5 p.m., Urevbu is centrally located and surrounded by phenomenal restaurants. I would recommend grabbing brunch and a coffee at a nearby café (like Hustle & Dough at Arrive Hotel) and walking down to the Urevbu to take in the awe-inspiring exhibitions.
Withers Collection Museum & Gallery
Downtown Memphis
Featuring over a million photographs, the Withers Museum perfectly encapsulates history and culture dating back to 1960. Dr. Ernest Withers photographed prominent historical figures and events, like the Memphis Sanitation Strike, Jackie Robinson in the dugout and even Aretha Franklin performing. Enjoy an entire afternoon, taking in the world through the eyes of Ernest Withers.
The Withers Collection Museum & Gallery is located on Beale Street! Beale Street is the iconic “Home of the Blues," with live performances every night of the week, amazing restaurants and is one of the few streets in the U.S. where you can walk around and drink. Schedule time to visit the Withers Collection Museum & Gallery while you are down on Beale.
Theatre
Young Actor Guild
Memphis and Mississippi
The Young Actor Guild has been paramount in the Memphis area for more than 30 years. Founded by Christi Chandler, the YAG (Young Actor Guild) is a powerhouse for dance and theatre. Hosting many classes and performances throughout the year, the Young Actors Guild prepares students for Broadway or beyond. Check out their Instagram to find out about their upcoming performances.
Hattiloo Theatre
Midtown Memphis – Overton Square
Located in iconic Overton Square, Hattiloo Theatre is the only freestanding Black repertory theater space within a five-state region. Hattiloo aims to provide high-quality performances throughout the year. Add a show to your Memphis itinerary. Check their website or Instagram for more.
Blue City Cultural Art Center
Whitehaven Area
Where it all begins: Blue City Cultural Art Center is the first Black-owned theater company in the Memphis region. Blue City Cultural Art aims to promote and give exposure to Black artists through the movement of dance and theater. Boasting multiple events throughout the year, Blue City Cultural Art Center embodies the community aspect of the arts in Memphis.
Dance
Collage Dance
Binghampton
One of the nation’s largest Black-owned dance studios is located right here in Memphis, TN. Founded in 2006 as a response to the lack of diversity in ballet and dance, Collage serves as a studio for patrons to not just observe the magic created on stage but also to take part in the numerous classes offered. From jazz to ballet to tap, both children and adults alike are invited to guided classes by staff. See the schedule and learn more here.
Music and Art
One11Madison
Downtown Memphis
As the name suggests, One11Madison is a tucked-away gem on Madison Street. Upon entering, you are greeted with the dinner portion of the space. But up a flight of stairs with artwork along the way, you enter a space where the creativity and spirits (if you choose) flow. Every week, 111 offers you the chance to either listen and relax to local Memphis jazz music, try to create your own craft cocktail or even become Picasso by partaking in their Paint and Sip classes. This unique space has it all. Check out their website for more!
Agriculture and Art
Black Seeds Farm
Uptown Memphis
Farm? And in the same sentence as art? Yes, you read that correctly! Black Seeds Farm, located in the Uptown District, is an urban farm owned by Bobby and Derravia Rich. Their urban farm serves a critical need for food insecurity in the uptown neighborhood, but beyond their agricultural expertise, Black Seed Farm exists to also merge farming and the arts together. “Agriculture is intertwined with all things health, art, culture, technology, wellness and nutrition. Intersection of art is a niche space that’s not filled, and we try to fill those gaps.”
They host art events all throughout the year. Previous events held at Black Seed Farm include guiding writing, water coloring, live concerts and more.
Check their Facebook or Instagram for more upcoming art events.
Carpenter Art Garden
Binghampton Neighborhood
This art garden located in the Binghampton neighborhood is an incubator for residents by providing free art classes, programming and support for school-aged children. The Art Garden, which was founded in 2012, stands as a safe space for children and adults to visit and be involved in all aspects of art. From painting to farming, this art garden offers several outlets to be a catalyst for change. Check the event page for more details!
