IAAM Hosts Architect Walter Hood & CEO Dr. Tonya M. Matthews for Dialogue on Black Heritage and Landscape

February 21, 2025

PRESS RELEASE: IAAM BHM 2/28/25 Program — An Architect & A Engineer Poet | Shaping Black Heritage Through Memory & Landscape

Contact: Paul Holston, IAAM Marketing & Communications Manager,
[email protected]; IAAM Marketing Division, [email protected]

IAAM Hosts Architect Walter Hood & CEO Dr. Tonya M. Matthews for Dialogue on Black Heritage and Landscape

Charleston, S.C. —  On Friday, February 28, the International African American Museum (IAAM) proudly presents An Architect & A Engineer Poet | Shaping Black Heritage Through Memory & Landscape, an insightful discussion between renowned architect Walter Hood and IAAM President and CEO Dr. Tonya M. Matthews, a renowned poet who also has a background in biomedical and electrical engineering. This dynamic conversation will explore the intersections of memory, heritage, and space in the preservation of Black landscapes. This program is made possible through the generous support of TD Bank and those desiring to attend can REGISTER HERE.

As Walter Hood presents his new book, The African Ancestors Garden: History & Memory at the International African American Museum, the discussion will expand beyond the creation of the African Ancestors Memorial Garden to broader themes of how architecture and engineering shape spaces that honor, reinterpret, and preserve African American legacies. Moderated by Dr. Matthews, this engaging dialogue will delve into the creative process of preserving and reimagining landscapes to reflect the complexity and richness of Black history.

The African Ancestors Memorial Garden, designed by Hood Design Studio, stands as a profound act of reconciliation, offering a space where the truth about the past is embraced and shared. The design integrates historical research and cultural memory, with key features such as the Palm Grove, Sweetgrass Field, and the reflective pool that reveals abstract human figures reminiscent of the famous Brookes Diagram—a haunting symbol of the transatlantic slave trade. Hood Design Studio worked closely with IAAM to ensure the landscape reflects the weight of history while serving as an accessible space for community engagement, education, and healing.

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with Hood’s work and explore how Black heritage is preserved through both natural and man-made elements. The “General Admission + Book Bundle” ticket includes admission and a copy of The African Ancestors Garden: History & Memory at the International African American Museum, which can be picked up at the IAAM during the program.

Program Details:

• Date: Friday, February 28, 2025
• Time: 6:30PM – 8:30PM
• Location: International African American Museum, 14 Wharfside Street, Charleston, SC, 29401 (Center for Family History)
• Parking: Metered parking is available on Concord Street. Paid parking is available at the SC Aquarium Parking Garage (24 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401).

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About the International African American Museum 

The International African American Museum (IAAM) explores the history, culture, and impact of the African American journey on Charleston, South Carolina, the nation, and the world, shining light and sharing stories of the diverse journeys, origin, and achievements of descendants of the African Diaspora. Located at the historically sacred site of Gadsden’s Wharf, IAAM honors the untold stories of the African American journey. Learn more at www.iaamuseum.org and follow IAAM on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, and TikTok.