The Soul of Tennessee

Emery Franklin grew up in an impoverished area in South Memphis. The youngest of six children, he always aspired to be an artist. His first realization of his artistic talents were realized when he was in junior high at Vance Junior High School in Memphis. His art teacher would assign him projects to create drawings and paintings that were used to teach his classmates the techniques and skills of creating art.
Throughout Emery’s years of drawing and painting, his artwork has become an expression of our rich cultural heritage. There are certain principles that Emery has carried throughout his life that has greatly influenced his work. He believes his hands have been guided by God, as he always prays before starting each new creation. His family values are deeply rooted in religion, trust, and honesty.
Emery has always felt the needed to give something back to the community. Through his artwork, he exemplifies the rich heritage of African Americans struggles and achievements. He feels that our youth need a positive role model, so he likes to spend time motivating and encouraging youth by setting a positive example for them. With this type of enthusiasm, they realize all their dreams are reachable with prayer and dedication. Emery believes that God has blessed him with a way of contributing to the uplifting of his people through his art.
As an artist, he loves to draw and paint beautiful people and places that touch the heart and soul of the collector. He would like to invite each and everyone who views his art to step into the painting and re-live a past experience or enjoy a brand new one.