CULTURE CITY COMMUNITIES
What Are Culture City Communities?
Culture is the soul of any city—and in Memphis, it’s everywhere. Thanks to the work of artists, cultural organizations, and creative entrepreneurs, Memphis is known around the world as a cultural beacon rooted in the Mississippi River Delta. From the music we move to, to the food we savor, creativity shapes our daily lives.
Yet, despite our global reputation, Memphis’ creative infrastructure hasn’t fully caught up with its talent. Many resources remain under the radar, and creatives often express a need for more connection, collaboration, and visibility.
Culture City Communities are designed to meet that need. These are networks of creative professionals who come together to share knowledge, resources, and opportunities. By building bridges across the creative ecosystem, they help strengthen Memphis’ cultural economy from the inside out.
- Share timely, relevant information about Memphis’ arts and culture sector
- Create welcoming spaces for creatives to connect, collaborate, and build community within and across disciplines
- Spark conversations that celebrate Memphis’ creative strengths while working together to close gaps and expand opportunity
Each Culture City Community shapes its gatherings in ways that best serve its members. Supported by a volunteer team of Culture City Ambassadors—and with promotional and logistical help from the City of Memphis—these gatherings are designed to be meaningful, inclusive, and action-oriented.
While the format of the sessions is up to the community members, the following are some suggested elements/formats that you may find fruitful:
- How often will we meet?
- When and where will gatherings take place?
- What topics matter most to us right now?
- What are our short- and long-term goals?
- How will we use our time together?
- How will we stay connected between gatherings?
To serve as a Culture City Ambassador, individuals should:
- Be 18 or older
- Live in the Memphis Metro Area
- Be actively involved in the local creative community
- Be passionate about strengthening Memphis’ cultural sector through connection, collaboration, and shared knowledge
CULTURE CITY COMMUNITIES (Launching in 2026)
Preserving the stories, spaces, and traditions that shape Memphis’ cultural identity.
Includes:- Historical sites and landmarks
- Archaeological and cultural landscapes
- Natural heritage stewards
- Museums and cultural institutions
Honoring food as a cultural expression and a shared experience.
Includes:
- Chefs, restaurateurs, and café owners
- Food festival organizers and culinary creatives
- Food lovers and cultural food advocates
Shaping how Memphis looks, feels, and communicates through design and innovation.
Includes:
- Graphic designers, marketers, and advertisers
- Architects, fashion designers, and interior designers
- Freelance artists and creative consultants
Uplifting the written and spoken word as a force for connection and expression.
Includes:
- Authors, poets, and spoken word artists
- Publishers, editors, and journalists
- Libraries, bookstores, and book fair organizers
Carrying forward Memphis’ legendary sound while amplifying new voices and rhythms.
Includes:
- Vocalists, instrumentalists, and bands
- Recording studios and music publishers
- Venue operators and live music promoters
- Record stores and music retailers
Bringing Memphis to life through movement, performance, and shared celebration.
Includes:
- Theater artists, dancers, and performers
- Festival and fair organizers
- Cultural event producers and multidisciplinary creatives
- Performing arts organizations
Exploring storytelling through screens, soundwaves, and immersive experiences.
Includes:
- Filmmakers, screen actors, and production teams
- TV, radio, and podcast creators
- Video game developers and digital media artists
Celebrating creativity through color, form, and craft in every medium.
Includes:
- Photographers, painters, and fine artists
- Galleries and museums
- Arts & crafts makers and visual storytellers