James Little 

“Democratic Experiment (expanded)”

As part of a $60 million waterfront revitalization of Memphis' Tom Lee Park, Project Backboard worked with the city of Memphis to envision a public basketball court installation in collaboration with artist James Little, a master of contemporary American abstraction. Known for his precise, disciplined approach to painting, Little brings a philosophy of self determination and creative freedom to his work— values deeply embedded in this court’s design.

Situated along the Mississippi River and surrounded by sweeping new public spaces designed by Studio Gang and SCAPE, the court anchors a broader vision for public art, recreation, and community gathering. For Little, abstraction is a powerful response to his upbringing in segregated Tennessee—a visual language rooted in autonomy and resilience.

To celebrate the project launch, we supported a community basketball day alongside Theaster Gates Studio and 5 Star Basketball, activating the space through play, performance, and public engagement.

Partners: Memphis River Parks Partnership, Studio Gang, SCAPE, James Little, Theaster Gates Studio, 5 Star Basketball, Project Backboard, Kindred Studio