project overview

The Ethos of Memphis | Renasant Convention Center Front Street Entry

UAC partnered with the City of Memphis and the Renasant Convention Center Board of Commissioners to produce an interior mural for the new lobby of the West Meeting Rooms of the renovated Renasant Convention Center. The convention center, formerly known as the Memphis Cook Convention Center, opened along the city’s riverfront in 1974. In 2019, the City embarked on a $200M modernization of the convention center that totally transformed the footprint of the space which now features hotel-quality finishes and amenities throughout. The reimagined facility also showcases an impressive art program featuring all Memphis-based or adjacent artists.

Artist Jared Small responded to the mural call with a series of paintings that depict past to present day Memphis through landmarks and architecture. From early Chickasaw Nation structures to Beale Street, this mural honors the diverse history of the city while creating a rich and layered image for visitors to the convention center complete with recognizable landmarks for Memphians.

“Born and raised in Memphis, I have witnessed the city’s successes and frustrations over the years, but I have also seen the consistent qualities of strength and beauty shine through. This city has so many positive assets, a rich culture and a gritty personality that makes it unique.””

— Jared Small

about the artist

Jared Small

Jared Small, a native Memphian, is a visual artist with the ability to tell stories that touch hearts, bring to mind old memories and spur the imagination of those who view his art. For more than 20 years, he has utilized images of people, structures, landscapes, plants and animals to tell stories that resonate with people from all over the world, from all walks of life. His art allows observers to appreciate the heart of the work from both close up and far away. Small works on mediums of both large and small scale while maintaining attention to the detail necessary to explain the narrative. Small has executed hundreds of commissions, curtailing each one to the space, theme, needs and desires of the clients while expressing himself creatively.