Community Building,
Interdisciplinary,
Diversity

Sense of Place:
Memories of Chattanooga

These programs explored the impact of gentrification in Chattanooga through storytelling and creative interpretation, fostering intergenerational dialogue. 

Photo Courtesy of Hunter Museum of American Art

Funding Categories

Honoraria
Contract Labor

partner

Hunter Museum of American Art

location

Chattanooga, TN

About

The "Sense of Place" program series consisted of storytelling sessions and creative interpretations that focused on the memories and experiences of Chattanooga’s African American communities affected by gentrification. These sessions were intergenerational, bringing together elders and younger community members to share and learn from each other, and they featured artistic expressions like poetry, music, and dance, adding depth to the discussions. Memories of Nellie Mae Rowe were also shared by her family and community, providing insight into her life and work.

Photos Courtesy of Hunter Museum of Art

Intended Outcome

To foster dialogue about the impact of gentrification and share memories of Nellie Mae Rowe and Chattanooga’s African American communities

Actual Outcome

The programs successfully gathered and shared important community stories, though attendance was lower than expected for the first session. The museum plans to make the content available virtually to reach a wider audience.