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Our History

 
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Our story begins in July of 2012 with a single- blighted lot on Carpenter St. located in the Binghampton area of Memphis TN and a vision for more. This lot has now been transformed into 9 properties that boast outdoor art classrooms, organic gardens, two mosaic parks and indoor facilities that house our programming. Almost 12 years later, we have grown into a community organization that offers free year round art, education and vocational programming to hundreds of youth and their families. Our commitment to recognizing and expanding upon the natural beauty that exists within the Binghampton community has led to the expression of the vibrant community we are today. We draw upon the wisdom of the Binghampton community through our youth participants, their families and other community members to ensure we not only address the immediate needs, but continue to serve as an active partner in the fulfillment of their hopes and dreams.

Our commitment to listening and responding to the needs, ideas, and dreams of Binghampton children and adults helped us grow into the vibrant community we are today. The Art Garden provides free year-round arts, educational, and vocational programs in nine beautiful spaces along Carpenter Street.

In 2022 we celebrated TEN years! Visit our Anniversary page to see how we have grown.

 

Our Vision

Empowering the children of Binghampton to create their best futures.

Our Mission

Growing young creatives through art, educational, and vocational programs.

Growing Young Creatives

June 2023 | Nimo and Arthur working in the garden at our Summer camp

Meet Our Staff


Anasha Chavez-Asforis

Executive Director

Tarlisa Evans

Community Engagement Manager

Terrance Leonard

Security

Kierra Davis

Operations Manager

Myrna Trevino

Art Education Coordinator

Chandra Ellerson

Executive Assistant, Grant Coordinator

Seleta Vann

Urban Farmer

Sumo Archer

Program Director

Our Board


Ayanna Murray | Board President

Author, Speaker, Educator, and Home School Guidance Counselor

Natalie McKinney

Co-founder and Executive Director of Whole Child Strategies, Inc.

Danny Valle

Principal at HBG Design

Rush Waller

Rush Waller, MD | Vice President

Le Bonheur Children's Hospital

Anna Vescovo

Anna Vescovo | Board Secretary

School of Law - The University of Memphis

Michael Stewart | Treasurer

Tax Director at CBIZ MHM, LLC

Megan Hoover

Architect, LRK

Andrea Morales

Professional Artist | MLK50 Visuals Director