Memphis’ vibrant arts scene thrives thanks to the dedication and creative spirit of countless individuals who bring their soul to all the do. Today, we’re shining a spotlight on a remarkable group: the women leading the charge at some of our city’s most esteemed arts and culture organizations.
From fostering artistic expression to preserving cultural heritage, these leaders leave an undeniable mark on Memphis’ creative landscape. So, grab your beret and prepare to be inspired by these Memphis muses! Curious about what’s going on at all of these organizations? Be sure to check out the Art for All Art Hub for events and more!
Metalmorphosis at the Metal Museum: Executive Director Carissa Hussong oversees the Metal Museum, a haven for all things metal. Under her leadership, the museum offers captivating exhibitions, educational programs, and artist residencies, nurturing the next generation of metal artists.
Jazmin Miller – Carpenter Art Garden
Blooming with Inspiration at the Carpenter Art Garden: Executive Director Jazmin Miller oversees the Carpenter Art Garden, a unique urban oasis where art and nature converge. Committed to fostering a creative community, Miller spearheads innovative programs and exhibitions, making art accessible to all.
A Canvas of Possibility at Crosstown Arts: Crosstown Arts, a revitalized Sears Crosstown building transformed into a thriving arts center, is led by Stacy Wright. Wright’s vision has created a vibrant hub for artists, fostering collaboration, experimentation, and artistic expression.
Preserving Legacies at the Brooks Museum: Founded in 1844, the Brooks Museum is Memphis’ oldest and largest art museum. Executive Director Zoe Kahr ensures the museum continues to inspire by stewarding its vast collection and presenting thought-provoking exhibitions that celebrate art history and ignite contemporary conversations.
Amplifying Diverse Voices with Indie Memphis: Indie Memphis, a non-profit dedicated to supporting Memphis’ independent film scene, is led by Executive Director Kimel Fryer. Indie Memphis supports local filmmakers, with a focus on creating an intersectional and racially equitable independent film community that nurtures the growth of filmmakers through five pillars: year-round screenings, an annual film festival, artist development programs, Black creators forums, and youth programming.
Celebrating Black Excellence with the Memphis Black Arts Alliance: Executive Director Lar’Juanette Williams is at the helm of the Memphis Black Arts Alliance, a cornerstone of Memphis’ cultural landscape. The Alliance, under Williams’ leadership, celebrates Black art, history, and culture through exhibitions, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives.
A Symphony of Storytelling with Tone: Tone, a multi-disciplinary arts organization, ignites artistic expression through innovative storytelling. Executive Director Victoria Jones leads the organization, fostering a platform for artists to explore new formats and engage audiences in meaningful ways.
Going Curtain-up on Creativity with Theatre Memphis: The magic of live performance thrives under the leadership of Executive Producer Debbie Litch. Theatre Memphis offers a diverse range of productions, from classic plays to innovative new works, ensuring there’s something for every theatregoer.
Giving New Life to Historic Clayborn Temple: At the helm of the historic Clayborn Temple, a cornerstone of the civil rights movement, is Executive Director Anasa Troutman. Troutman leads the organization in preserving this cultural landmark and fostering community engagement through educational programs and artistic events.
Turning Up Local Music with Memphis Music Initiative: Leading the way in music education and artist development is President and CEO Amber Hamilton at the Memphis Music Initiative. This organization empowers musicians of all ages and backgrounds, ensuring the legacy of Memphis music continues to grow.
Katie Smythe – New Ballet Ensemble
Education On Pointe at New Ballet Ensemble: Offering a diverse array of multicultural dance genres and after-school programming, New Ballet Ensemble is committed to whole child development. The creative youth and arts education organization, founded by CEO and artistic director Katie Smythe, immerses students in high-quality, equitable dance training through scholarships and free programs in 10 public schools across the Mid-South.
Curating Community at Overton Park Shell: Memphis’ iconic outdoor amphitheater, the Overton Park Shell, comes alive under the leadership of Executive Director Natalie Wilson. Wilson curates a diverse season of concerts and events, ensuring the Shell remains a vibrant hub for all things music in Memphis.
Showcasing Stories at Blues City Cultural Center: For more than 40 years, BCCC has implemented quality programs and services through a cohort of professional artists and other creatives, numerous collaborations, and stakeholders who support their mission and understand the passion for the arts. The BCCC produces original works that use the Arts to address social issues and to tell stories of the people. The Blues City Cultural Center is led by Executive Director Anaya C. Williams.
These are just a few of the remarkable women shaping Memphis’ arts and culture scene, which is the soul and heartbeat of modern Memphis. By supporting these organizations, we empower these leaders to continue nurturing creativity, fostering inclusivity, and ensuring Memphis remains a vibrant hub for artistic expression. So, explore these institutions, celebrate these leaders, and let Memphis’ creative spirit inspire you!
For even more inspiration, check out Shelby County Art for All – including a free programming map, calendar of upcoming arts events, and much more.
