ARTSmemphis Reaches Milestone of $100 Million Distributed to Local Artists and Arts Organizations since its Funding, Announces “ARTrageous” Celebration this November

MEMPHIS—ARTSmemphis, the Mid-South’s primary arts funder, has reached a historic funding milestone: $100 million in grant dollars distributed to local artists and arts organizations since its founding.

Since last July, ARTSmemphis collectively invested $3.4 million into the local arts community. The organization distributed $3 million through 187 grants to 66 organizations and 24 individual artists based in Shelby County. ARTSmemphis also facilitated funding to arts organizations and artists for their creative services and served as a vehicle for philanthropy to establish the first-ever Office of Culture & Creative Economy for the City of Memphis.

ARTSmemphis’ fiscal year, which ended June 30, marked one of the most successful fundraising years on record. It was the second highest revenue-generating year in recent history behind 2021, when ARTSmemphis was infused with government recovery funding following the pandemic. In addition to corporate philanthropy, unrestricted individual donors increased by 10%.

“Not only are we celebrating our historic work, but we’re continually setting the stage for future growth,” said Elizabeth Rouse, ARTSmemphis President & CEO. “To reach the $100 million mark is affirming on so many levels, but our mission continues—as we partner with contributors to elevate our support and make more possible for Memphis through the arts.”

ARTSmemphis has announced the return of ARTrageous, a fundraising event last celebrated in 2005, to take place this November 13 at Crosstown Arts. The fundraiser’s original co-chairs, Allison Barton and Lucia Heros, are returning this year in the same capacity, with a steering committee including Mia & Paul Henley, Cecilia L.W & Matthew Heffington, Ann & Joel Parker, Kimberly & Elliot Perry, Pooja & Kush Shah, Molly & Jason Wexler, Jazzy & Kemmons Wilson III, and Anna & Ben Wunderlich.

Presented by First Horizon, ARTrageous will offer a one-of-a-kind night featuring live music, interactive art, captivating performances, and unforgettable surprises—all in honor of a major milestone. 

“ARTrageous is more than just a party,” said Rouse. “it’s a tribute to the power of the arts and the community that fuels it.”

Learn more about sponsorship, VIP and early bird ticketing artsmemphis.org/artrageous.

ABOUT ARTSMEMPHIS. ARTSmemphis, a 501(c)3, is the Mid-South’s primary arts funder, working behind the scenes to expand the foundation of Memphis’ arts through diligent and diverse support. The granting organization has distributed $100 million since 1963 and serves as a funding partner, advocate and connector for local artists and arts organizations. For more information, visit artsmemphis.org.

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