Memphis News: Metal Museum's Final Bluff Exhibit , 'What We Surround Ourselves With' Showcases 83 Works of Craftsmanship Before Overton Park Move
- Dr. Layne McDonald
- 1 day ago
- 5 min read
Direct Answer: The "What We Surround Ourselves With" exhibition at the Metal Museum is a landmark showcase of 83 metalwork objects from the personal collection of Jim Masterson, the museum's Director of Metal Studios. Running through July 31, 2026, this exhibition marks the historic final show at the museum’s original Mississippi River bluff campus before it relocates to its new, expanded home in Overton Park.
Short Summary: Curated from over 26 years of Jim Masterson’s journey in the metal arts, this exhibition highlights the profound connection between a craftsman and the objects that fill his life. Featuring everything from kinetic sculptures to delicate jewelry, the show serves as a "love letter" to the Memphis metalworking community. As the museum prepares to open its doors at Rust Hall in Overton Park this September, this final bluff exhibit offers a spiritual and artistic meditation on the value of legacy and transition.
By Dr. Layne McDonald, Founder of Memphis News with a Purpose
The Sacred Art of the Surround: Why This Exhibit Matters
In our fast-paced Memphis life, we often overlook the items that occupy our shelves and walls. However, for Jim Masterson, every object in his collection tells a story of mentorship, technical mastery, and friendship. "What We Surround Ourselves With" is more than just a display of metal; it is a reflection of a life lived in pursuit of excellence.
As we walk through the Keeler & Gasparrini Galleries one last time on the bluff, we are invited to consider the biblical principle of stewardship. In the same way that we are called to guard our hearts (Proverbs 4:23), we are also called to be intentional about the environments we create. The 83 objects in this collection represent the "good fruit" of decades of labor and relationship-building within the Memphis arts community.
A Legacy Forged in Steel: Jim Masterson’s 26-Year Journey
Jim Masterson has been a cornerstone of the Metal Museum for over a quarter-century. As the Director of Metal Studios, his influence has reached hundreds of apprentices and fellow smiths. This collection isn't just a gathering of "things"; it is a map of a community.
The exhibition includes:
Kinetic Sculptures: Works that move and breathe with the touch of a hand, reminding us of the dynamic nature of God’s creation.
Forged Steel Forms: Heavy, grounded pieces that speak to the strength and resilience of the Memphis spirit.
Personal Curiosities: Even a mid-century Slinky makes an appearance, demonstrating that beauty and craftsmanship can be found in the everyday if we have the eyes to see it.
Masterson’s collection highlights the works of former apprentices and staff members, showcasing a lineage of craftsmanship. In a "Bible Study" sense, this is a beautiful illustration of discipleship. Just as Paul mentored Timothy, Masterson has mentored a generation of metalsmiths, and their work now stands alongside his as a testament to shared knowledge and mutual respect.
From the Bluff to the Park: A Season of Holy Transition
The Metal Museum has occupied its breathtaking spot on the Mississippi River bluff for decades. For many Memphians, the sight of the iron gates and the sound of the hammers ringing out over the water is a core part of the city's identity. However, growth often requires a change of soil.
The move to Rust Hall in Overton Park is a massive step forward. The new campus will be nearly three times the size of the bluff location, allowing for expanded educational programs and even more ambitious exhibitions. While it is natural to feel a sense of loss for the iconic river view, we can find peace in the promise of Isaiah 43:19: "See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?"
This transition is a "Green Light" moment for our city, a chance to see a world-class institution take root in the heart of the Memphis Arts District. The finality of the "What We Surround Ourselves With" exhibit isn't an end; it’s a sharpening of the tools for the work ahead.
The Community Impact: Iron Sharpening Iron
The Metal Museum is one of only two institutions in the United States dedicated exclusively to the art of fine metalworking. Its presence in Memphis is a unique blessing that draws artists from across the globe. This final exhibit highlights how the museum has functioned as a "city on a hill" for the craft.
Exhibitions Manager Thais Lloyd has noted that the show reveals the technical excellence and generosity that have guided the museum's tenure. Many of the pieces were created specifically with Masterson in mind or given as gifts, illustrating the "Peacemaker" perspective of community building. When we support local arts, we are supporting the very fabric of our city’s social health.
Just as we saw in the recent cultural exchange at Hattiloo Theatre, Memphis thrives when we open our doors to creativity and shared humanity. The Metal Museum's move to Overton Park will only increase these opportunities for connection.
❓ FAQ
Q: What is the main focus of "What We Surround Ourselves With"? A: It is an exhibition featuring 83 works of metal craftsmanship from the personal collection of Jim Masterson, celebrating 26 years of the Metal Museum community.
Q: When is the last day to see the exhibit on the bluff? A: The exhibition closes on July 31, 2026.
Q: Why is the Metal Museum moving to Overton Park? A: The move to the former Memphis College of Art building (Rust Hall) allows the museum to triple its size, offering more space for exhibits, studios, and public education.
Q: When does the new Overton Park location open? A: The Grand Opening is scheduled for September 5, 2026.
Q: Is there an admission fee? A: Yes, standard museum admission applies. Visit metalmuseum.org for the most up-to-date pricing and hours.
Internal Links to Related Stories
By Dr. Layne McDonald, Founder of Memphis News with a Purpose
Christian Takeaway
The Bible tells us in Psalm 111:2 that "the works of the Lord are great, studied by all who delight in them." While these metal works are made by human hands, the ability to create, forge, and design is a gift from the Creator Himself. When we surround ourselves with things that are "excellent or praiseworthy" (Philippians 4:8), we create an environment where the Spirit can move. This exhibit teaches us that our possessions should not just be "stuff," but reminders of the hands that made them and the God who gave the talent.
How to Pray/Engage
Pray: Ask God to bless the Metal Museum staff and leadership during this massive logistical move to Overton Park. Pray that the transition is smooth and that the new space becomes a haven for peace and creativity in the city.
Engage: Visit the bluff campus before July 31. Take a "prayer walk" through the galleries, thanking God for the 40+ years of history at that site and asking for a fresh anointing on the new campus.
Peacemaker's Perspective
A peacemaker understands that change can be difficult and even controversial. Some may feel saddened by the museum leaving the riverfront. However, the peacemaker's strategy is to celebrate the legacy of the past while providing a "Green Light" for the progress of the future. By honoring Jim Masterson's collection as the final bluff exhibit, the museum is choosing to exit with a spirit of gratitude and community unity.
Call to Action
Don’t miss this historic moment! Visit the Metal Museum at 374 Metal Museum Drive before July 31 to experience "What We Surround Ourselves With." Then, mark your calendars for September 5, 2026, to welcome them to their new home in Overton Park!
Comments