Emmett O'Ryan Award for Artistic Inspiration

Geographic Scope: Shelby County, Tennessee

The Emmett O'Ryan Award for Artistic Inspiration, known as "The Emmett," is an annual award given to an outstanding visual artist by Renasant Bank in partnership with ARTSmemphis. This prestigious award recognizes excellence and honors an artist who has demonstrated sustained commitment to developing their craft.

Award Details:

• Award Amount: $10,000 (largest unrestricted cash award given to a visual artist in Shelby County)
• Frequency: Annual
• Recipient Focus: Outstanding visual artists demonstrating sustained commitment to their craft

Award History:

• Founded: 2010
• Named in memory of Emmett O'Ryan, founding Board Member of Metropolitan (now Renasant) Bank
• O'Ryan was a screen printing company owner, art patron, musician, and was pursuing an MFA in sculpture at Memphis College of Art at time of death

Recognition Criteria:

• Recipients exemplify depth, diversity, and quality of art being created in Memphis
• Demonstrate sustained commitment to developing craft
• Work represents varied disciplines and media

Funding Partner:

• Renasant Bank provides the funding and co-administers the award

Recent Recipient (2024):

• Kiersten N. Williams, visual artist known for collaged paintings and murals featuring feminist, maternal, and racial themes with bold colors and geometric patterns

Contact:

• ARTSmemphis
• 575 S. Mendenhall Road, Memphis, TN 38117
• info@artsmemphis.org
• 901.578.ARTS

Application Process

Detailed application instructions not provided in available materials. For specific application requirements and nomination/selection process, contact ARTSmemphis directly or visit artsmemphis.org.