Meet Jules Downum and Mattie Waters Directors of The Pop-up Project | Non-profit dance and production company

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jules Downum and Mattie Waters Directors of The Pop-up Project and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jules Downum and Mattie Waters, what are you inspired by?
I am inspired by people and stories. Especially those that show me a new way to view the world, or challenge assumptions I have had.Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
The Pop-up Project is a non-profit arts organization based in Chattanooga, TN. We work with local artists to create large scale, collaborative projects, such as immersive events and films! Since out founding in 2016, we have created 13 short films and are finishing our first feature length film this year! We have worked with hundreds of local, professional artists and 18 organizations, performed at dozens of events around town, and produced 7 immersive events of our own. We have both grown and achieved enormous amounts since we began in late 2016. Our directors, Jules Downum and Mattie Waters have worked tirelessly to grow an organization built of valuing humans while respecting and fostering their abilities. But, the power of Pop-up comes in its team of passionate and committed artists. They have shown an enormous amount of passion, drive, and perseverance over the last four years, but especially in 2020. If this year has taught us anything at all, it is that the best laid plans can fail. We believe that the most important qualities in any organization are determination, an ability to adapt, and a clear vision for the future
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love the outdoors, so if my best friend was coming I’d take them hiking on the Cumberland Trail, boating on the Chikamauga lake, and swimming in one of our lovely creeks – Middle Creek is a favorite. I also love food and Chattanooga has so much to offer. Dinner at Proof with desserts from Poppytons would be a must. I’d also definitely take her to Flying Squirrel and grab some tea at Wildflower. I’m imagining they are coming in the summer of 2021…. so, We’d HAVE to take several dance classes at Studio34 (opening in Chattanooga SOON!!!)The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Dedicated to all the artists we collaborated with in 2020

Website: www.thepopupproject.org

Instagram: @thepopupproject

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/popupprojectchattanooga

Image Credits
The image with the dancers being filmed was shot by Abigail Rice All other images by Tim Cofield