Chattanooga Remembers Morris “Moe” Mitchell: A Creative Legacy
Chattanooga, Tennessee, is preparing to celebrate the life of an extraordinary individual, Morris “Moe” Mitchell, who passed away peacefully at the age of 89 on October 9, 2024. Moe’s journey began in Highland Park, Illinois, but it was in Chattanooga and Sarasota, Florida, where he truly left his mark. An immensely talented artist and dedicated professor, Moe spent an impressive 42 years sharing his passion for art at the Ringling College of Art and Design and contributed to the artistic community at the Hunter Museum in Chattanooga.
A Life Dedicated to Art and Education
Moe was not just a teacher; he was a mentor to countless students, collectors, and aspiring artists. His classes were known for being dynamic and engaging, and many of his former students credit him with igniting their passion for creativity. Moe believed in the power of art to transform lives, and his love for teaching was evident to all who had the privilege of being in his classroom. His impact continued outside the classroom as he inspired private students and nurtured their artistic talents.
Celebration of Life Details
The Chattanooga community is invited to come together for a Celebration of Life event in honor of Moe on Sunday, November 17, from 1 to 5 p.m. This gathering will take place at the Bessie Smith Cultural Center, located at 200 East Martin Luther King Blvd. It aims not only to celebrate Moe’s life and accomplishments but also to provide an opportunity for friends and family to share memories and express their gratitude for the joy he brought into their lives.
Those wishing to attend are encouraged to RSVP by November 10 to ensure that proper arrangements can be made. It’s an excellent chance for the community to come together, reflect, and connect over shared experiences with Moe. The RSVP can be sent via email to moemart@comcast.net. And for anyone unable to attend in person, don’t worry! The event will also be live-streamed for everyone to join virtually at https://www.youtube.com/live/W3g8CDxaYuQ. Be sure to bookmark it!
Contributions to Honor Moe
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Moe’s legacy can make contributions to the Morris Mitchell Art and Education Fund at the Bessie Smith Cultural Center. Creating spaces for art and education was something Moe deeply valued, and contributing to this fund is a wonderful way to ensure his legacy continues to inspire future generations. For more information, you can visit the Bessie Smith Cultural Center website.
More Than an Artist
Moe’s legacy extends beyond his professional achievements. His gentle spirit, warm smile, and infectious enthusiasm for art left a lasting impression on everyone who crossed his path. He was a beacon of creativity and kindness, making an indelible mark in the hearts of his friends, family, students, and the wider art community. His passing has left a void that will be felt deeply, but the life lessons he imparted and the joy he spread will continue to resonate.
Community Connection
As Chattanooga prepares to honor Moe Mitchell, it’s an opportunity for each of us to reflect on the influences in our lives. Whether through his artistic accomplishments or his dedication to teaching, Moe’s essence will forever remain a part of the fabric of this city’s artistic community. So, let’s gather together to celebrate an incredible life, remember the beautiful art he created, and acknowledge the countless lives he touched.
As we look forward to this celebration, let’s cherish the creativity he fostered and continue to embrace art in our own lives as a way to connect, express, and inspire one another. Moe Mitchell may have departed from this world, but his artistic legacy will continue to shine brightly.
