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.
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.
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.
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. 
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).
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.
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...
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.
3030 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38111
(901) 415-2700
May 1 - 29, 2010
Exhibit transportation provided by
