Founded in 1997, the UrbanArt Commission is a non-profit that successfully established a program with the City of Memphis to fund public art projects. With the aim of enriching our shared neighborhood spaces, the UAC has managed the program since 2002. At the helm is Executive Director Lakeisha Edwards, who brings warmth, passion, and a wealth of experience to the role. Get to know this week’s FACE of Memphis!
Tell us a little about your background.
I was born and raised in Covington, TN, a place I hold dear for its sense of community and the values it instilled in me. My childhood was filled with the nurturing presence of my parents, Autry and Diane Edwards, who emphasized the importance of giving back and supporting those around us. For college, I attended the University of Memphis, where I majored in Social Work and Psychology, drawn by a desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Returning to Memphis wasn’t just a career move; it was a heartfelt decision driven by my deep love for this city and an understanding of its current challenges. Memphis is experiencing a crucial moment in its history, facing issues requiring dedicated, passionate individuals to step forward — people who are aware of the city’s needs and deeply committed to addressing them. My decision to accept the position at the UrbanArt Commission was fueled by a desire to be part of that positive force.
What drew you to a career in the world of community development?
Growing up in a family that valued community and service, I was naturally drawn to community development. My family’s legacy of being givers and nurturing the well-being of others inspired me to pursue a path where I could contribute to improving the quality of life for communities, aligning perfectly with my professional aspirations in social work and psychology.
How did your career path lead you to the UrbanArt Commission?
After college, my career path took me on a bit of a tour. I spent a solid 13 years with the Tennessee Division of Child Support Services, learning the ropes and how to navigate the complexities of support systems. It was rewarding, challenging, and everything in between. From there, I took a leap into tackling food insecurity head-on as the Director of Agency Partnerships and Programs at the Mid-South Food Bank for five years. Let me tell you, if you want to see community in action, that’s the place to be.
In 2021, I moved to Fayetteville, Arkansas, to lead Art Ventures as the Executive Director. That experience was like a crash course in creativity meets community; I loved every minute of it. While art wasn’t my initial passion, the decision to pivot my career towards it was deliberate.
After years of confronting the harsh realities of people’s struggles, I sought a different avenue for contributing to community well-being — one that still offered significant, positive change but through a different lens. Leading Art Ventures in Fayetteville wasn’t about pursuing a personal passion for art but about continuing to do meaningful, community-based work in a new context that could uplift and inspire.
Now, life’s come full circle, and I’ve recently returned to Memphis as the Executive Director for the UrbanArt Commission. It’s like coming home with this amazing opportunity to blend all the pieces of my journey — social work, community engagement, and the arts — into one.
How would you describe the mission of UAC?
The UrbanArt Commission’s mission is to cultivate a rich, vibrant public art scene that reflects and enhances Memphis’s cultural and artistic diversity. We aim to integrate art into the public realm, making it accessible to all and fostering a sense of shared community identity and pride.
What do you think it brings to the Memphis community?
UAC brings a unique blend of community engagement, artistic innovation, and public space transformation that no other organization in Memphis offers consistently. By focusing on collaborative projects that resonate with the community’s spirit, UAC creates lasting impacts that not only beautify spaces but also stimulate dialogue, connection, and cultural appreciation.
What are one or two projects that truly illustrate UAC’s impact on the community?
The art collection we curated for the Memphis International Airport holds a special place in my heart. It’s like a warm hug welcoming you into our city. This collection, featuring artwork by local artists and a variety of installations, represents the vibrancy and talent within Memphis. It’s a beautiful introduction to our city’s rich cultural landscape for visitors and a proud display of local creativity for residents returning home.
Secondly, the “I Am a Man” installation in front of Clayborn Temple is profoundly meaningful. This artwork not only honors the history of the civil rights movement in Memphis but also serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and courage of those who fought for justice and equality. It keeps the conversation alive, reminding us of the strong shoulders we stand upon as we continue to work towards improving the quality of life for all Memphis residents.
These projects, in their unique ways, encapsulate what UAC stands for — celebrating our history, embracing our community, and inspiring a brighter future through the power of art.
What do you love most about Memphis?
What do I really love about Memphis? It’s the vibe and the people. Throughout my career, I’ve met many amazing folks who share my passion for making a difference. It feels like there’s this untapped potential all around us to make life better for everyone here. Plus, Memphis has this incredible knack for bouncing back and making change happen from the ground up. It’s got this resilient, grassroots spirit that’s just contagious.
I’m here because I want to be part of that energy, diving into all these opportunities to bring out the best in our city.
What is your best piece of advice?
Stay true to your values and passions. They will guide you through challenges and lead you to fulfilling opportunities where you can make the most significant impact.
Aside from faith, family, and friends, what are three things you can’t live without?
Cooking, shopping at Ross Dress for Less, and self-care in the form of nail appointments and frequent updates to my hairstyle.
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Meet more inspiring women from Memphis in our FACES archives!
