A groundbreaking multimedia art exhibition and a documentary film set to premiere on April 4 and 5 in Topeka pay homage to the city’s historic "The Bottoms" neighborhood. This area, predominantly inhabited by Black and Hispanic communities, was dismantled during an urban renewal initiative between 1956 and 1964. The project, titled “Reclaiming Home: Remembering the Topeka Bottoms,” aims to honor the displaced residents while celebrating the unique cultural tapestry that once defined this vibrant community. Featuring over two dozen miniature home models crafted by University of Kansas professor F. Maria Velasco, alongside oral histories and visual art, the exhibition will remain open until May 31. Additionally, a documentary with the same name will debut at the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site, offering audiences a deeper understanding of this pivotal chapter in Topeka’s history.

The Bottoms, nestled near the Kansas River, stood as a symbol of resilience and diversity despite its socio-economic challenges. Once home to around 2,000 people, it boasted a rich blend of cultures and traditions. However, under the guise of modernization, the city implemented a federally funded Urban Renewal program that forcibly evicted residents and demolished their properties. In its place arose infrastructure projects, including an elevated stretch of Interstate 70. Yet, memories of camaraderie and shared experiences linger among former inhabitants, who fondly recall their time in this cherished locale.

F. Maria Velasco's artistic endeavor encapsulates the essence of The Bottoms through intricately designed tabletop home models. Each piece reflects individual narratives collected from former residents and their descendants, creating a mosaic of personal stories. Accompanying these models are portraits and postcards embedded with QR codes linking to video testimonials, allowing visitors to engage directly with the community’s past. Furthermore, the exhibition showcases a large wall display incorporating artwork inspired by an old Sanborn fire insurance map—the sole surviving cartographic record of the neighborhood. Collaborating with KU students, Velasco infused elements of 3D modeling, manual fabrication, and catalog design into her project, ensuring a comprehensive and immersive experience for all attendees.

Beyond the visual components, the documentary film delves into the profound impact of urban renewal on The Bottoms' community. Directed by Matt Jacobson, a professor of film and media studies at KU, and featuring Neill Esquibel-Kennedy, an archivist and visiting assistant professor of American studies, the film provides insight into the complexities surrounding displacement and cultural preservation. During the screening at the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site, audience members will have the opportunity to pose questions to the filmmakers, enriching their comprehension of this significant historical event.

Through the combined efforts of artists, scholars, and community members, “Reclaiming Home: Remembering the Topeka Bottoms” not only commemorates a lost neighborhood but also underscores the importance of preserving cultural heritage. By highlighting the global diversity and solidarity that characterized The Bottoms, this initiative serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of those who called it home. As visitors explore the exhibition and view the documentary, they are invited to reflect on the lessons learned from this transformative period in Topeka’s history and appreciate the lasting legacy of its people.