Actor
Film Screening-ANCESTRAL ARTISTRY -Arizona Architectural Film Showcase
Produced by the Louisiana Architecture Foundation, this film explores the legacy of Black craftsmen and builders whose artistry shaped Louisiana’s architectural identity.
The film illuminates how African and European influences merged in Louisiana's architecture through both technique and artistry. From finely crafted ironwork and ornate plaster details to expertly constructed homes and public buildings, the contributions of these Black and Creole artisans helped define Louisiana’s unique built environment. Yet their names and stories are often absent from history books, their contributions underrecognized and at risk of being forgotten.
Ancestral Artistry brings this legacy to life by interweaving historical context with the present-day stories of New Orleans craftsmen who are working to keep these endangered traditions alive. The film follows three master artisans—Jeff Poree, Darryl Reeves, and the late Teddy Pierre—as they share their personal journeys, creative practices, and visions for the future. Each man has dedicated his life to preserving the delicate techniques and cultural memory of their ancestors, despite the mounting challenges of an aging workforce, lack of apprentices, and increasing disconnection from manual trades.
Through rich visuals, personal interviews, and a deep respect for history, Ancestral Artistry is both a celebration and a call to action. It honors the hands that built Louisiana and urges us to protect this heritage before it fades. The film reminds viewers that architecture is not just about buildings—it’s about people, memory, and the stories we choose to preserve.
The Louisiana Architecture Foundation (LAF) supports this work as part of its broader mission to connect the public to the architectural profession. LAF promotes public awareness, engagement, and appreciation of architecture’s role in shaping our communities.
Arizona Architecture Foundation
Arizona Preservation Foundation / Preserve PHX
Butler Housing Company
Coldwell Banker Historic Homes Group
Supporting Sponsors
