State of the Arts: Mayoral Forum 2026- In This Place 2026

Do you care about the future of Memphis culture? The music, art, stories, and creativity that make this city feel like home? State of the Arts is a powerful citywide gathering that takes stock of where Memphis arts and culture are right now and where we are headed next. The evening opens with highlights from the past year in Memphis culture, a look ahead at what’s coming, and insights drawn from research and community voices about what creatives need to thrive.

From there, the conversation turns outward. Mayoral candidates will join the room after hearing what the creative community has named as priorities, expectations, and opportunities for growth. In a guided forum with audience participation, candidates will respond to questions about how they plan to support and strengthen Memphis arts and culture, turning shared knowledge into civic dialogue and accountability.

State of the Arts is part of In This Place, an annual citywide season of culture, community, and capital powered by The Big We. Throughout the season, Memphians gather to connect, learn, and shape the future of the city we love. This gathering brings that collective energy into one room and invites everyone to take part in shaping what comes next for Memphis.

RSVP on Eventbrite and add your voice to the future of Memphis.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher The Historic Clayborn Temple