Memphis’ Pinch District experienced a burst of color and community spirit as volunteers gathered for a Planter Painting Project. Led by renowned Memphis artist Toonky Berry, participants transformed ordinary planters into vibrant works of art.
“The planters themselves show that there is a level of care in the public realm, and when you have the kind of human element to the things that we do, people are more likely to use our public spaces,” said Kirkwood Vangeli, MMDC’s Manager of Streets and Public Spaces. In addition to the fact that it offers opportunities for new and existing businesses, Vangeli chose the Pinch District to draw pedestrian traffic to the neighborhood.
“Now, adding the element of art on top of that is going to make the space even more walkable for people to enjoy, whether they’re going Downtown or coming back from Downtown, going to Uptown,” Vangeli added. “There is a lot of pass-through traffic that will really benefit from the beautification of the planters.”
Renowned artist Toonky Berry, the visionary behind the project, is known for his murals around the city. He’s no stranger to collaborating with others for art, but this project was a change of canvas.
“It’s not just one giant wall… it’s 19 of them,” Berry said, pointing to the planters lining the street. “...I’m glad that people come out to volunteer and help with a paint by number thing.”
The planters were painted a rich turquoise, with other vibrant colors added. Volunteers painted with one color, one step at a time, and filled in outlines made by the artist. From waves, to lines, to leaves, each design draws inspiration from Memphis and the Mississippi River, while pulling the community together.
“I love Memphis. I love being a part of this, and just seeing it all coming together,” said one volunteer, Nadja Rajak. “And this is about to be my planter, so when you drive by, I did it. So I’m seeing it through, and I’m enjoying it.”
“Like, this is their mural as much as mine,” said Berry. So I love to do murals like this as well.”
Friends arrived together, eager to contribute to the beautification of the Medical District. Supported by the Downtown Memphis Commission, the atmosphere was lively, filled with laughter and creative energy as participants of all skill levels painted unique designs. Attendees enjoyed serene hours spent beautifying the area as they painted with a purpose, one brushstroke at a time.
“I recently moved to Memphis, so coming out here has been very exciting, getting to meet local people of Memphis and kind of being part of the community,” said Vanessa Smith, another volunteer who moved here to work for St. Jude. “And being out here, meeting people, has been very exciting and invigorating.”
Passersby, including neighbors, stopped to admire the work, expressing excitement about the transformation and the visible community engagement. Many commented on how wonderful it was to see people actively involved in enhancing the area, and business owners are looking forward to the impact it will bring as well.
B.J. Chester-Tamayo owns Alcenia's, a well-known restaurant whose colorful exterior matches its soul and flavor. She provided breakfast and lunch to the volunteers and has seen the progression of the neighborhood.
“Hopefully, people will see this, and the flowers, and the planters, and know that life fills into the Pinch, you know?” said Chester-Tamayo. “...And I always said that lighting is life, just like darkness is death, light is life.”
Each painted planter now stands as a testament to the dedication and talent of the volunteers who participated, leaving a lasting mark on the neighborhood. At the moment, MMDC is exploring partnerships in order to source new plants for the planters. For more information, send an email to info@mdcollaborative.org.
