South Main Arts District Proclamation

Proclamation by Mayor Herenton
for the South Main Arts District
May 12, 2000

Whereas, the South Main Historic District is a unique neighborhood of architectural, cultural and historic significance evidenced by its listing on the National Register of Historic Places; and

Whereas, this district has also become an established urban residential neighborhood with loft apartments in renovated warehouses and commercial buildings; and

Whereas, a number of local and national artists have chosen to "colonize" the area and open a variety of art galleries, photography studios, stained glass studios, artist studios, and other arts related businesses; and

Whereas, the arts and cultural activities of Memphis help to define us as a city with a rich cultural soul that compliments our diverse musical heritage; and

Whereas, South Main is an emerging "Arts District" and will recognize this unique artistic diversity with the first South Main arts festival and gallery walk on May 12-13, 2000; and

Whereas, cities throughout the world celebrate their arts, cultural heritage and tradition through the establishment and promotion of local "arts districts";

Now, therefore, I William W. Herenton, Mayor of the City of Memphis, do issue this proclamation establishing the South Main Arts District as a city cultural district.