History
The UAC was established in 1997 through the collaborative efforts of the Greater Memphis Arts Council and Shelby County Government. It began as a small program and has since grown into a separate 501(c)(3) with a staff of three.
In December 2001, Memphis City Schools passed a voluntary percent for art for all future construction. This happened after the successful completion of three trial projects and several UAC-initiated school projects. The percent for art program applies to renovations of existing schools in addition to new school construction.
In March 2002, the City of Memphis worked with the UAC to pass percent for art legislation, dedicating a permanent revenue source for art enhancements in city capital improvement projects. The UAC has since completed 12 City of Memphis projects.