story and photos by Robin Beaudoin Ownby
Kerry Cutrell, the creator of the YART phenomenon, calls it something for “anyone with a small business. Bakers are artists in their own right.” Encouraging Memphians to buy locally was the goal when Cutrell gathered creating friends for the inaugural YART sale in December 2020.
What inspired you to bring artists together for the YART sale?
In the pandemic, you couldn’t go shopping in stores, and as small business owners we still need people to buy from us, so I thought doing it outside would help get people out of the house. It’s safer for people, and it’s a small social gathering, which people haven’t had much of. It’s nice to be in the fresh air and talk to other people.
shop safely without worry of the virus.”
What items can we expect to find at a YART sale?
Ima’s Famous Buttermilk Pies, Jimmy Hoxie’s bread and pastries (Ginger’s Bread Bakery), Jewelry Reimagined: upcycled jewelry & trophy designs by Julie Nouwen, Amy Holland art, Tedy Treats for dogs by Lindsey Stanfill, Teas, skincare, and candles by From Eden Gifts, and furniture designs by Kerry Cutrell, with openings to add artists and vendors in the future.
Your furniture is creative and colorful, what inspired your style?
I was inspired by henna tattoos I got with a friend in New Orleans. I use henna ink because I like the fact that it stains the wood, and that design becomes a part of the piece of furniture. I like to incorporate carvings and inlay of crushed stone or mica powder to bring out the carvings. I also refurbish and do other work upon request.
(Center) Jimmy Hoxie, Ginger’s Bread Co., said, he’s “drawn by the feeling of community with makers and the neighborhood.”
(Right) Painter Amy Holland said, “It’s been fun meeting and talking to different people and artists that come up and shop.”
YART sales will be the first weekend of the month at 756 S. Evergreen, Memphis
To follow future sales or request to participate in future YART sales as a vendor:
IG: kerrycutrelldesigns FB: kerrycutrelldesigns
