World Class Exhibits

Bringing Belgium to Memphis in May of 2011


Each year, Memphis in May brings exciting and alluring exhibits from the honored country to local museums, galleries, and public spaces, providing Memphians with the opportunity to experience international culture first-hand. Exhibits are on display on May 1 - 31 of each year.

 

Coming Soon: Keep a lookout on this page for information about the world-class exhibits from Belgium coming to Memphis in May of 2011!


Tunisia in May of 2010

This past May 2010, these exhibits brought the history, art, and culture of Tunisia from the banks of the Mediterranean to the banks of the Mississippi. After traveling across continents and oceans to make an appearance in Memphis, these exhibits took Memphians on a journey to the land they call home, giving Mid-Southerners the chance to explore the modern African nation of Tunisia!

 

The following are among the distinguished Tunisian exhibits that came to Memphis in May of 2010!


Mosaics of Ancient Rome: A Tunisian Treasure

For over four and a half centuries, the Romans ruled Tunisia, leaving great architectural footprints behind them such as colossal aqueducts and grandiose coliseums. Among the Roman upper class of the time, it was fashionable to decorate houses and buildings with contemporary mosaics. Because of this practice, Tunisia is home to one of the world's largest collection of Roman-era mosaics, each offering insight into the culture and history of the Roman empire. 

Brooks Museum of Art

1934 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104

(901) 544-6200 

May 1 – 31, 2010


Tunisian Life in Art

This exhibition illuminates life and artistic excellence in Tunisia. Delve into Tunisian life as seen through the eyes of noted Tunisian artists such as Habib Bouabana, Meriem Bouderbala, and Maurice Bismuth.

 

Dixon Gallery Gardens

4339 Park Av, Memphis, TN 38117

(901) 761-5250

                                           May 1 - 31, 2010  


Landscapes of Tunisia

Breathtaking photography of Tunisian landscapes, ranging from the dazzling Mediterranean coastline to the sandy Sahara Desert. Acclaimed Tunisian photographer Lilia Benzid uses the camera to bring the beauty of Tunisia to the eyes of Memphis. 

Memphis Botanic Garden

750 Cherry Road, Memphis, TN  38117 

(901) 576-4100

May 1 - 31, 2010

 


Water and Money - The Currency of Civilizations

This exhibit takes visitors on a guided journey through Tunisian history, offering insight into the ancient cultures of Tunisia through two of the world’s most valuable resources: water and money. Rare and authentic coins from the ancient civilizations of Carthage, Rome, and Constantinople trace the rise and fall of these storied empires.  Just as the evolution of a civilization is reflected with monetary systems, the management of the important resource of water is also revealing.  Discover interesting parallels between this ancient land and our own muddy Mississippi as this exhibit details structures such as Roman aqueducts, Paleolithic monuments, oases of the Sahara, and more.

Mississippi River Museum at Mud Island

125 N Front S, Memphis, TN 38103 

(901) 576-7230 

 May 1 - 31, 2010

  


Woman of Yesterday, Woman of Today: Tunisia

Modern Tunisia has had a progressive history with women’s rights, extending liberties for women immediately following independence in 1956.  “Woman of Yesterday, Woman of Today” portrays Tunisian women’s changing role throughout history. From the ancient to the modern era, this beautiful exhibit illustrates a woman’s life in Northern Africa through the ages.  As a leading country in this region, Tunisia was the first Arab country to abolish slavery (1846).

National Civil Rights Museum

450 Mulberry Street, Memphis, TN 38103

(901) 521-9699

May 1 - 31, 2010


Soul to Soul:

Instruments from a Mediterranean and Arab Land

“Soul to Soul: Instruments from a Mediterranean and Arab Land” offers a chance to see  and hear the instruments that make the alluring sounds of Tunisian music. Composed of ancestral instruments used throughout the ages, much of the collection resembles instruments with which a Memphis audience is familiar –  a drum, a bagpipe, a banjo – but with an exotic Tunisian twist… Discover the similarities to our own musical heritage through this interesting and authentic exhibit.  

Presented in cooperation with the Centre of Arab and Mediterranean Music in Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia.

STAX Museum

926 E. McLemore Ave, Memphis, TN 38106

 (901) 946-2535       

May 1 - 31, 2010


Sacred Manuscripts: The Treasure of Kairouan

Kairouan, popularly known as the holiest city in Tunisia, is home to the oldest Muslim place of worship in all of Africa. The Great Mosque of Kairouan (also known as the Sidi Oqba Mosque) contains some of the oldest and most beautiful Arabic manuscripts in existence, many of which were written in gold ink and decorated with traditional floral and geometrical designs.  

“Sacred Manuscripts: The Treasure of Kairouan” brings a touch of the mysterious and ancient culture of Islam’s past to Memphis. Each manuscript has its own story and symbolism, some passing through the hands of princes and kings on their journey to Kairouan...

LeMoyne Owen College

Hollis F. Price Library

807 Walker Ave, Memphis, TN 38126  

(901) 435-1000  

May 1 – 31, 2010

 


Contemporary Painting of Fethi Zbidi

Prominent contemporary artist Fethi Zbidi is known for working with colors, shapes, and contrasts to create his unique expressions. Zbidi utilizes Arabic calligraphy in his paintings, letters and language fading and disappearing in the abstract work. Recently in New York for the opening of his exhibit at the Tunisian Culture Center, Zbidi loaned this collection of compelling paintings for Memphis in May’s Salute to Tunisia.

Central Public Library Gallery

 3030 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38111

(901) 415-2700  

 May 1 - 29, 2010

 

 




Exhibit transportation provided by

 


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