Mosaic Memorial Park
Mosaic Art Park
Mosaic Garden - 2016
The Mosaic Garden is a community-led art project that encourages gathering, sharing space, and dialogue for Binghampton residents. Carpenter Art Garden purchased the vacant lot at 2910 Mimosa from the land bank, and our Mosaic Apprenticeship program was formed. Every tile you see is handmade, with thousands of Memphis hands having contributed to this project. We do not host regular programming in the mosaic garden - this is a flexible community space. It is common to see a person enjoying lunch or a birthday party at these picnic tables.
In the summer of 2016, a group of 6 teenagers learned how to make ceramic tiles, glaze, operate the kiln, and grout the tiles on the existing wall under the leadership of mosaic artist Suzy Hendrix. Our team led community tile-making days on the empty lot, inviting anyone passing by to create a tile for the sculpture garden. These tiles each represent a connection made during the months of production.
In 2017, a new group of mosaic apprentices developed the seating area with a large flame designed to honor Binghampton residents who have died. This immersive memorial to love and loss is a space for community members to gather, reflect and even release balloons to celebrate their loved ones. The final installment - "Tree of Life," was designed and installed in 2018 by our most recent team of mosaic artists.
In a decade, CAG has gained a lot as an organization. We have also experienced tragic losses as a community impacted by violence. CAG members and neighbors often operate on high alert due to regular violence. The community mosaic project offers a therapeutic way to process some of those losses.
In partnership with Memphis Tilth, fruit trees were planted on the lot in 2020, establishing a "Giving Grove" for the neighborhood to enjoy fresh fruit.
