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Memphis Material

Memphis Material

Written by: Memphis Material
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About this listen

An oral history project chronicling the stories of the visual arts in Memphis, Tennessee. Memphis Material is a podcast celebrating the personal histories, intimate stories, and the studio practices of some of the people who help shape the creative landscape of our city. Art
Episodes
  • Frank D Robinson
    Feb 27 2026

    From the amazing UrbanArt Commission’s Movable Collection site:

    Frank D. Robinson Jr. is a Memphis-based visual artist with a primary focus on narratives and the transformation of discarded objects from everyday life, such as packaging, cereal boxes, fast food papers, glass, and keys, into exquisite jewels for his large-scale mixed-media artworks. He holds a BFA from the University of Memphis and a Masters in Painting from the Art Institute of Chicago. His artwork can be found in numerous private collections and is also a part of the collection at the University of Illinois.

    Robinson is best known for his Trash to Treasure Portraits, which delve into the beauty of life’s struggles, the ability to turn adversity into positivity, and the overarching theme of caring for humanity. Over the course of two decades, he has faced personal challenges related to diabetes and dialysis, and these experiences have significantly influenced his creative work, incorporating elements from his health journey.

    In his efforts to inspire young artists and art teachers, Robinson offers the following advice: “Dream big, use kind words, express love, embrace laughter, and find joy in silliness. Share your talents, remember to say ‘please’ and ‘thank you,’ practice gratitude, lend a helping hand, and always keep your promises. Avoid complaining, be open to new experiences, take moments to breathe, stay composed and carry on, and, most importantly, don’t forget to laugh out loud.”

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    1 hr and 45 mins
  • Michael Roy AKA Birdcap Part 2
    Feb 20 2026

    From Birdcap’s amazing website:

    Birdcap is a myth-making muralist and comic artist whose work drifts between folklore and philosophy. With roots in street culture and a mind full of ghosts, he creates poetic narratives about impermanence, rebellion, and the strange joy of continuing on.

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    1 hr and 40 mins
  • Michael Roy aka Birdcap Part 1
    Feb 13 2026

    From Birdcap’s amazing website:

    Birdcap is a myth-making muralist and comic artist whose work drifts between folklore and philosophy. With roots in street culture and a mind full of ghosts, he creates poetic narratives about impermanence, rebellion, and the strange joy of continuing on.

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    1 hr and 54 mins
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