History
UrbanArt
History
The UAC was established in 1997 through the collaborative efforts of the Greater Memphis Arts Council (now ArtsMemphis) and Shelby County Government. It began as a small program and has since grown into a separate 501(c)(3).
Since 1997 the UAC has overseen the completion of over $6 million in art enhancements to facilities such as the new Memphis/Shelby County Public Library, the Cannon Center for the Performing Arts, five Memphis City Schools and two Shelby County Schools, among others.
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:South Central Whitehaven Elementary, Hickory Hill Middle School, and Germanshire Elementary. 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 funding for art enhancements in city capital improvement projects. *There are currently 12 completed CIP Percent for Art Projects in the City of Memphis, as of June 19, 2008.
Chris Condon
Tower of Knowledge
2002
South Central Whitehaven Elementary School
Trial Project - Memphis City Schools Percent for Art Program