MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The South Main Arts District continues to grow and offer new experiences.
The Art Village Gallery is one of the oldest galleries and is constantly evolving. Its newest edition is a first of its kind in Tennessee.
The combination of fine art and fine wine at Art Village Gallery is this week’s Bright Spot.
Ephraim Urebvu is a pioneer of the South Main Arts District. When he opened his gallery in 1998, most of the buildings in the area were still boarded up.
“I’ve always been an innovator in the downtown area,” he said.
Nowadays the gallery showcases Ephraim’s original works and an eclectic mix of artists from around the world. He’s also now adding wine to the experience.
“The people who collect my artwork are actually people who enjoy fine wine. To have both in one place is a no-brainer,” he said.
Ephraim partnered with Humboldt-based Crown Winery to bring this marriage to fruition. All of the wine featured in the gallery is made just up the road in Humboldt.
Peter Howard opened the winery in 2009 and is excited about introducing his product to a new market.
“Memphis is Memphis, and to actually be able to do this in the heart of Memphis is like a dream come true,” he said.
You may not think of Humboldt as wine country, but Howard says the area offers the perfect soil and climate for his grapes. Crown Winery features reds, whites, and sparkling wines.
“Last year, we harvested over 60 tones of grapes,” he said.
“A typical evening would be coming to the gallery, enjoying fine art while sipping on fine wine,” Ephraim added.
Maybe typical in other cities, but something totally new and different in downtown Memphis.
The wine room at the Art Village Gallery officially opens this Saturday, February 21.