Join us for the screening of Rockstone and Fire, directed by Courtney Coke, Founding Member of the Wattle and Red Earth Collective. The documentary illustrates an approach to preservation anchored by architectural landmarks, but expands to fully incorporate the culture and heritage of rural Jamaica. Following the documentary, audience members will hear from Sarah Ann Hodges, FJIA, and Peter J. Francis, mJIA, of the Wattle and Red Earth Collective who helped launch the film in March 2019.

The methods used to construct Jamaica’s housing stock during the post‐emancipation period up through independence bear historical and architectural significance. As Jamaica develops, it is important to document for future generations how Jamaicans housed themselves prior to migrating to the nation’s cities, Kingston and Montego Bay, for economic and social opportunities. Current housing in the nation is either in the form of housing schemes (similar to planned urban developments in the US without the commercial building aspect) or individuals building reinforced concrete block structures on family land. Global exchange can benefit the architecture community and increase understanding.

Speakers:
Sarah Ann Hodges, FJIA, Principal Architect/Partner, Kingston 10 Architects; Founding Member, Wattle and Red Earth Collective
Peter J. Francis, dip Arch, (Leeds), R.A., mJIA, Partner, Kingston 10 Architects; Founding Member, Wattle and Red Earth Collective

The Wattle and Red Earth (WARE) Collective is a Jamaican not‐for‐profit organization. The group formed in 2017 to promote the preservation of historic structures and traditional building methods through advocacy, education, responsible stewardship and sustainable development. The name is derived from the traditional art, craft forms and building techniques in rural Jamaica. Learn more about the collective here.

Credits:

1.5 AIA LU/HSW