Pat Brown, Vice-President of the Historic Broad Business Association (HBBA), has been a vital part of the revival that’s taken place on Broad Avenue over the past several years. The Broad Avenue Arts District is a burgeoning arts-focused neighborhood in the core of Memphis whose resurgence has been fueled by the grassroots efforts of the HBBA and the local merchants. Pat is a tireless champion for Broad Avenue, and making Memphis’ urban core a more walkable, bikable, and artist-friendly place.
Pat is also Business Manager & curator of Broad’s T Clifton Art Gallery. In Pat's words:
"Gravitational Pull – The power of the midtown neighborhoods and attractions becomes even stronger with an active, vibrant Overton Square. Broad Avenue currently benefits from the “jewels” found in Overton Park – Memphis Zoo, Brooks Museum of Art, Memphis College of Art, along with the grandeur of the park. Adding the energy of Overton Square will further power the growth of all of these areas, plus everyone coming from “the east” passes by Broad Avenue.
“Staycation” – Instead of thinking about just coming to Broad Avenue for an art walk, consider making midtown your weekend getaway. Enjoy theatre, art galleries and museums, artist studios, great restaurants and more – all within a few blocks of each other. (HINT – Ride your bike for added enjoyment.)
Event Planning – Expanded opportunities to partner for creative events. Art Crawl anyone?
Strengthen the inner city – trends reflect that retirees, new college graduates and those in between are desiring livable, urban communities. Overton Square’s redevelopment will help further connect several Midtown neighborhoods with Broad Avenue, just as Broad Avenue helps to connect neighborhoods east of the Parkway with Overton Square.
What’s Old is New Again – Broad Avenue gains a great example of how to update facades on older buildings in a way that supports walkable communities full of charming older buildings, public art and an entrepreneurial spirit."