Have you wandered around Memphis and seen a cluster of murals, and wondered who painted them?
Well, Paint Memphis is responsible for a lot of the beautiful imagery that’s seen throughout our city.
Each year, artists from near and far take to streets to bless parts of the city with their creative touch.
2024: A Return to Lamar Avenue
This year’s location: Lamar and Willett — they’re bringing the festival back to the spot where it all went down in 2017.
This year’s theme: Art is Healing. which is pretty fitting seeing as the pandemic has brought us together in many ways, even if we have to stay apart.
Karen Golightly, the festival’s executive director, says it best: “Art is healing, and we’re so excited to bring our festival back to this space where three communities—Glenview, Rozelle-Annesdale, and Central Gardens—meet. We’re here to show how art can bridge people together.”
What to Expect
The festival is packed with cool stuff for everyone:
Mural Workshop: From 1-3 PM, Memphis favorite Jamond Bullock is leading a free hands-on mural workshop at 829 S. Willett. If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at mural painting, this is your chance!
Live Music & Performances: Groove to live music from The Turnstyles, Marcella Simien on the Overton Park Shell on Wheels stage, and Memphis Jookin’ led by Ryan Haskett.
Vendors & Food Trucks: Stock up on locally made goods from artisan vendors and grab a bite from some of Memphis’ best food trucks.
Kids’ Area: Let the kiddos get creative in a special art area just for them.
Tag Battle: Feeling competitive? Check out the graffiti tag battle at 1570 Lamar Avenue at 5 PM where artists will compete for prizes.
A Community Canvas
What makes Paint Memphis special is how it brightens up the community. This year’s murals will cover buildings, the underpass, and even Altown Skate Park, with works by artists like Milt Coronado, Carlos Valverde, Taylord, and many more. Local artist Joseph Boyd will also lead the creation of “Pieces of Peace”, a mural featuring artwork from Memphis and Shelby County students. Kids at the festival can jump in and add their own contributions, creating a lasting piece that shows how art can unite us all.
From Chelsea Avenue to Broad Avenue, Paint Memphis has left its colorful mark all over the city, turning plain walls into community landmarks.
And the impact doesn’t stop after the festival. Paint Memphis hosts year-round workshops and community mural projects, making sure that anyone who wants to get involved with art has the chance to do so.
Get Involved!
Whether you’re an artist, a volunteer, or just someone who loves seeing Memphis shine, Paint Memphis needs you! There are plenty of ways to get involved, from helping out at the event to joining in the fun. For more info, head to their website or follow them on social media to stay in the loop.
Check It Out!
Don’t miss your chance to see the incredible work happening this year.
Paint Memphis will be in full swing on October 12, 2024, and the murals will remain up for all to enjoy long after the festival ends.
Head down to Lamar and Willett to take in the fresh new murals and be part of a Memphis tradition that’s helping to shape the city one brushstroke at a time.
