What started as a casual backyard music bash has blossomed into a vibrant festival known as Artoberfest. This year marks the fourth installment of the event, initiated by three University of Memphis alumni: Lavi Tsuna, Jalen Jones-LaSane, and Zev Lavine.
The idea for Artoberfest sparked back in 2020 when Tsuna and Jones-LaSane decided to throw a music gathering at Tsuna's home. Their aim was to showcase Jones-LaSane's audio equipment while enjoying time with friends.
Little did they know the event would grow into a platform for musicians and artists from across the Memphis area.
The seeds for this festival were planted when Tsuna unexpectedly ran into Lavine, a former acquaintance, who heard the music from his backyard. Lavine expressed an interest in hosting his own backyard event, prompting Tsuna to introduce him to Jones-LaSane.
"How it started was basically opportunity knocking, and we were like it’s something productive we can do,” said Tsuna. “It’s something we can include our friends in and also just include other people in our Memphis community.”
Artoberfest has since become a showcase for local talent, featuring artists like Karen Wills, founder of “It’s Sew Kewl.” Wills began her sewing business during the pandemic after acquiring a new sewing machine.
“Being a former nurse, I was just really concerned. I started out actually giving face masks to people in nursing homes who couldn’t get them,” said Wills. “So that’s kind of how it started, and it just sort of took off.”
Wills first crossed paths with Tsuna at the Cooper Young Market last year, where he invited her to participate in Artoberfest. She can be found at the Cooper Young Market two to three Saturdays a month, selling handmade items ranging from mug rugs to pet bandanas.
Another staple at Artoberfest is the duo behind “Plants and Lamps”, who sell plants, lamps, small magnets, earrings, and unique artwork.
“We have been coming here every year since it started four years ago,” said Cecily Vera. “Kayla has been friends with Zev for a long time, and he was at his house at the very beginning. So that was really what got us into markets. That was like our little test market, and it was great.”
Their journey from that initial market at Lavine’s house to returning every year to Artoberfest highlights the festival's ability to bring people together.
This year’s Artoberfest not only celebrated local artists but also showcased creativity and camaraderie. As the festival continues to grow, it serves as a reminder of the joy found in shared experiences, where music and art can unite people from different backgrounds and interests. With each passing year, the founders of Artoberfest are not just inviting friends and neighbors but also inspiring a broader audience to come together through art and music.
