Released on: 2011-01-01
A Plea for Modernism
Phillis Wheatley Elementary School was a significant landmark in the TremĂ© neighborhood of New Orleans, serving as an important educational institution for African-American students for nearly half a century. The school was known for its innovative modern design that was unique to the region, reflecting the areaâs cultural and historical roots. However, the school sustained significant damage during Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath in 2005. Despite the damage, the schoolâs unique design caught the attention of DOCOMOMO Louisiana, an organization dedicated to preserving modern architecture. They advocated for the restoration of the school through adaptive reuse, citing its historical significance and architectural importance. The organization produced this short film, âA Plea for Modernism,â narrated by actor Wendell Pierce, to raise awareness of the schoolâs cultural and historical value and promote its restoration.
